Southland girls' softball coach Karleen Retterath is expecting a smooth transition to the Three Rivers Conference after a 9-6 season last year in the Southeast Conference.

"We should be better than last year since we only lost one senior," says Retterath, "so we've got our five seniors and a good junior group coming up."

Heading this group will be All-State center fielder Amanda Landherr, who returns to give the Rebel offense some punch. Shortstop Megan Schroeder also garnered All-State honorable mention last season.

Southland can count a deep pitching staff as a strength as well. Freshmen Michelle Landherr, Amy Walerak, and Kathy Olson will all be bringing varsity experience into this season.

"They all have different pitching styles," said Retterath, "which is good because it allows us to throw some different looks at opposing batters."

Rounding out the lineup will be seniors Bridget Felten at first base, outfielder Nikki Kirkpatrick, third baseman Sarah Walerak, and three-year starter Carrie Shawback at second base.

The change in conference means that the Rebels will be playing more single games than doubleheaders this season.

Southland begins play April 7 against Dover-Eyota.