Linganore Softball Enters New Season Searching for First State Championship

Linganore softball wants to change the story it has consistently written throughout its history. The Lancers have been regional champions five times since 2007 but despite its numerous triumphs in the postseason, the team has never won a state championship.

The last two years have been particularly frustrating for Linganore, and its current crop of players. In 2014, the Lancers lost in the state finals, while last year the team fell in the semifinal round. Both postseason losses came against Northern from Calvert County, which won the state championship both years.

"These girls have played together for awhile, been in pressure situations and came out on top. That level of experience will be extremely beneficial this season," head coach Andrea Poffinberger said. "Unfortunately, we also know how it feels to come up short and this leaves a bad taste in our mouths. "

The Lancers return nine players from last year, and have lost just one starter from 2015, setting Linganore up nicely for another strong showing this season.

Among those returning is ace pitcher Kayleigh Day. Day had a good year for the Lancers last season, and with a talented defense behind her, she should be able to keep opponents from getting on the scoreboard.

On the offensive side of things, leadoff batter Kennedi Ambush is expected to be a key contributor. Ambush brings versatility and speed to Linganore's lineup. It will be her job to get on base for when Linganore's power hitters Jordan Specht, Erika Kosar and Lauryn Lovewell bat. All three hit over .300 last year and launched multiple home runs, so it will be Ambush's job to make sure there's someone on base to take full advantage of the Lancers' power.

The group will need to continue their play from last season for Linganore to have another great season. The competition is relentless in the Central Maryland Conference, meaning Linganore will be tested on a regular basis.

"Some of our biggest competitors will be Catoctin, Middletown, Walkersville and our rival Urbana," Poffinberger said. "If we accomplish our goals we look forward to also potentially seeing our state tournament rival Northern."

It's a test Linganore would welcome with open arms. The Lancers have plenty of experience in getting close- they now want the experience of celebrating a state championship.

"We have big team goals this year and we feel given the opportunity we can bring home a championship," Poffinberger said.