2006 Deer Lakes Softball. photos courtesy John Kokladas and Deer Lakes Softball Boosters

The Deer Lakes catcher had been behind the plate two years now, and this was her senior year. “She was an awesome catcher, probably could’ve been [ranked] first team” notes Lancer Softball Coach Craig Taliani. But when the season began, the team needed her at third base to give a freshman catcher experience. The senior catcher--and co-captain--made the move. Taliani says, “She didn’t complain. And she did great at third base.” The move ensures the club would have experience at the pivotal position for the next few seasons. It also paid off this season: the Lady Lancers went 14-5, were section co-champs and made their second trip to the playoffs, ever.

The coach says the whole team is like that: selfless. “They were all open to changing positions and places in batting order, the epitome of a team attitude.” The unselfish senior was Brianna Kokladas, who will likely be catching for Waynesburg College this time next year. She did, however, catch a little this year for senior captain Julie Mueller, who pitched and played first base. Mueller, also a cheerleader, hit .434, 9 triples, and 8 doubles. “They work very well together,” Craig says. “And Mueller is the best first baseman in the valley.”

Meanwhile, Brielle Gaurrich, the new freshman catcher not only picked up a season of experience; she also was top hitter, averaging .468 with 3 home runs, a grand slam and 17 RBIs. Sweet. The third captain was senior shortstop Sarah Plocki, a three-year starter. “The captains really set a great example for the other kids,” says Taliani. The Lady Lancers got another boost from sophomore pitcher Amanda Colton (6-2) who was in her first varsity year on the mound. “She was very steady all year long,” Taliani says. “We had also lot of younger kids come in, learning new names, trying to find their place, and step into a team sport, who did a fantastic job.”

Brianna Kokladas

Gabby Scanga

Serena Edinger