Coach: Lisa Russell and Gary Dolloff (fourth year)

Conference: MVC Class: C

Last year’s results: 13-6, lost in Western C semifinals.

Returning athletes: Seniors — Lindsay Marston (P), Samantha Higley (3b), Adelle Oswald (2b); Juniors — Karen Flaherty (SS), Sydney Petrie (1b), Kelli Trenoweth (UT), Emily Laubauskas (3b), Abby Mazza (UT).

Key losses: Aly Carlton (OT), Katie Collette (C), Shannon Laubauskas (OF), Katie Mills (2b), Karissa Murphy (OF), Kasey Smith (1b), Kelsie Blanchard (UT).

Promising newcomers: Senior — Leah Perry; Junior — Jordyn Turner; Sophomores—Grace Briggs, Abbey Binette, Jordan Duguay, Hanna Pierce, Liza White.

Season outlook: The Falcons produced one of their best softball seasons in years by reaching the regional semifinals last spring. Mountain Valley returns much of that team and has an experienced group looking to build off last year’s disappointing extra-innings loss to Hall-Dale. The Falcons have some holes to fill after graduating seven seniors, but Marston is a veteran pitcher with a seasoned group behind her.