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Patriots open new ballpark, welcome six newcomers this season

From the moment that the 2009 George Mason softball team takes the field for the first time, the Patriots will have a sense of change and newness that surrounds them, and head coach Joe Verbanic believes that will be the key to laying the foundation for the future.

Verbanic, in his fifth season at the helm, will oversee a lineup that welcomes nine newcomers to the team while six returnees will anchor the Mason lineup. Most visible among the changes for 2009 is the opening of the Patriots' state-of-the-art home ballpark.

Among the returnees who will help usher in the new era of Mason softball, none stands out more than junior pitcher Becky Anderson, the staff ace who set a school record last year with 36 appearances. Anderson, who won 14 games including five shutouts while compiling a 1.95 ERA for the Patriots in 2008, is a force in the pitcher's circle who can deliver nearly every time she takes the field.

Mason features two seniors on the roster in outfielders Ali Bryan and Meghan Hill. Bryan's experience and Hill's determination are two of the qualities which Verbanic most values in his senior leaders.

Rounding out the returning corps of players are redshirt sophomore Kate Bustin, and sophomores Stephanie Strother and Kara Weiner. While each saw limited action last season, the wide-open nature of the Patriots' lineup will give each player a chance to compete for a starting spot.

Among the newcomers, Verbanic feels that they comprise the strongest freshman class since he has been a part of the Patriots, and highlights the infielder trio of Alyssa See, Rachael Davies and Tori Dudley as an excellent addition. Verbanic also sees Miranda Cranford, Anush Mooradian and Morgan Davis as three to watch for their offensive power. The addition of Cranford along with Brianne Pease to the pitching staff will bring some much needed depth as well.

All together, the foundation that Verbanic hopes to build on in 2009 will position the Patriots for a run to the postseason now and in years to come.