SOAP LAKE -  The Soap Lake High School softball program is in a transition mode for the 2012 season. After a rocky start last year, the team was unable to finish out. But first year coach Denise Maria has high hopes for the Lady Eagles.

"I have a young team coming into the season ... my infield is primarily freshman and sophomores," she said. "While this does bring freshness to the season and the team, the drawback is the majority of these girls are playing fast pitch for the first time."

With Maria being new to the program, she is unaware of how the team will stack up to the competition in the 2B Central Washington Conference. But she does know who she will be relying upon to help get the team into contention.

"This year our team captains are Aliyissa Rose and Deonne Ramm. These girls will work as the backbone of the team and the individuals I will lean on for setting examples for dedication, team work, and athletic ability," she said. "In addition, Emily Allen a student coming from Wilson Creek is a strong all-around player who, I think, will show great promise at short stop this season for the team."

The Eagles will get an opportunity to see how they will measure up when the team takes the field against Manson in twin bill action at home March 17. First pitch is scheduled for 11 a.m.