The 2016-17 edition of Tiffin University softball saw a youth movement, and the growing pains that come with the inexperience. The Dragons suffered through 28 losses, 18 of which came by two runs or less. Head Coach Jeff Nickerson is very optimistic that the experiences of the past will have a positive impact on the future.
Tiffin returns a roster that has 15 players that saw game action last year. The Dragons bring back their top three hitters, as Jamie Sevenish, Libby Crow, and Sierra Besser-Paul will look to take command of Tiffin's offensive attack. The trio combined to account for 44% of Tiffin's hits, 33% of their runs batted in, 31% of their doubles, and 43 of Tiffin's 59 stolen bases.
On the mound, Tiffin will rely on the one-two punch of Kimmy Reynolds and Tiffany Snell. The duo combined for 17 victories, 183 strikeouts, 24 complete games, and six shutouts. April Bennett is another returner that will be asked to contribute innings on the hill. Last year she appeared 14 times on the mound, logging 33 2/3rd innings and posting a 3-2 record.
The Dragons begin their season against Lincoln Memorial on February 23, in Spartanburg, South Carolina at the Mid-South Tournament. The Dragons will make their home debut on March 21, as they welcome in their first GLIAC opponent of the season in the form of Ashland University.