The Inquirer TOP 10 SOFTBALL

Records are from last season.

Rk. Team Rec.

1. Avon Grove 20-5

With junior pitcher Maggie Balint and senior catcher Alyssa Herron returning, the defending District 1 AAAA champs are the team to beat. The dynamic duo helped the Red Devils to a berth in the state quarterfinals.

2. Pennsbury 14-8

Last year, a young Falcons team was one win away from the state tournament. A good senior nucleus returns in pitcher Casey Boltersdorf, outfielder Fiona Link, and multipurpose player Dani Litwin, all seniors.

3. Springfield (D) 23-4

The defending PIAA Class AAA state champs should contend in the Central League, District 1, and again at the state level, thanks to a wealth of returning talent. Courtney Scarpato, Taylor Winkelman and Tori DePietro are just three of the big pieces the Cougars have back.

4. Neshaminy 15-6

With an offensive lineup most teams will envy, look for the Suburban One League American powerhouse to once again be a contender. Sam Offenback, Nikki Wild, Sarah Snider-Leonhauser, and Mackensie Compton will lead this group of sluggers.

5. North Penn 17-8

Year in and year out, the Maidens have proven to be around come postseason - both the district and state tournaments. Expect nothing less from this squad, led by senior pitcher Jackie Bilotti.

6. Downingtown E. 14-8

Over the last couple of seasons the Cougars have been on the cusp of contention in District 1. With junior pitcher Paige Warfel, they should be a team to watch not only in the Ches-Mont, but also come playoffs.

7. Episcopal Acad. 15-2

Senior pitcher Alex Viscusi helped the team to several program firsts last year. The Churchwomen won their first Inter-Ac title and Independent Schools state titles. With eight starters back from that team, EA will be tough to beat., EL2>

8. Chichester 19-4

District 1 Class AAA semifinalists a year ago, the Eagles return pitcher Meghan Wimmer, a senior headed to Brown. Shortstop Alex Maher and catcher Maddie Thornton are also back.

9. Hatboro-Horsham 11-9

The Hatters have senior outfielder Jen Cader and are a strong program in a very strong conference. That should add up for Hatboro, a team that likes to play small ball.

10. Archbishop Ryan 22-3

A quarterfinal berth in the PIAA Class AAAA state tournament and a Catholic League championship highlighted a special season for the Ragdolls last year. With five starters back,they have the pieces in place to defend their title.

Under consideration (listed alphabetically): Central Bucks East (10-9), Conwell-Egan (15-9), Methacton (17-5), Spring-Ford (20-5).

- Kate Harman
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