This summer's edition of the Austin 18-and-under softball team should be an excellent one, assuming they can get everybody on the field at once. New head coach Lisa Quednow-Bickler has been busy putting together the roster, which boasts a number of local standouts.

Leading the way is Minnesota-Duluth-bound Amy Kelly, the ace hurler for the Section 1AAA runner-up Austin Packers. She'll still be able to throw to her old batterymate Keri Feller, who capped off her junior year with Big Nine All-Conference recognition.

Lyle/Pacelli is also well-represented, as Class A All-State pitcher Louise Mudra and catcher Rebecca Mino have lent their talents to the squad.

The outfield will be anchored by another All-Section 1AAA performer in AHS center fielder Steph Sundberg. She'll be joined by fellow Packer Betsy Hingeveld, who was Big Nine All-Conference as well.

Rounding out the squad are Kati Seeck, Sarah Brady and Nicole Barclay, all significant contributors for the Packers this spring.

AHS starters Meggan Rider, Theresa White and Nicole Turvey should be in the lineup as their schedules allow.

Packer infielder Caitlin Jurgensen may join the team if she successfully recovers from a knee injury suffered this spring. L/P's Brandi Meyer is a possibility too.

"I'm excited to coach them, it should be fun," Quednow-Bickler said.

Austin's season begins this weekend when they host the Austin Girls' Youth Fastpitch Tournament at Todd Park. There will be 12 teams competing in the 18-and-under bracket.

Post 91 starts round-robin play Saturday with games at 8 a.m., 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Play continues Sunday at Todd Park.