2013 VYPE DFW Softball Preview: 10 Teams to Watch

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Plano East and Forney were the only VYPE DFW area softball teams to make it to last year's UIL state tournament, but several teams begin the season ranked among the state's top 10 including Plano East (5A), Birdville (4A), Ennis (4A), Forney (4A), Waxahachie (4A), and Celina (3A). Grapevine Faith Christian is back to defend its TAPPS 4A state title.

VYPE DFW staff and contributors have compiled 10 area softball teams and 50 notable returning players that could make headlines in the 2013 season.

10 TEAMS TO WATCH

Birdville

Returns Susan Welborn, Taylor Fitzgerald and Cherlynn Townsend from team that was one win from state tournament

Forney

2011 4A state finalist is one of the area’s most consistent 4A programs, brings back Brooke McCarroll, Taylor Penn and Micah Fitzgerald

Frisco Wakeland

One of area’s best 4A programs has reached at least regional semifinals five years in row

Hebron

Last year’s regional finalist barely qualified for playoffs and return Chelsea Herndon and Deja Talton

Keller

Two-time state champions and defending district winners bring back April Ryan, Kristin Watkins and Tori Charters

Lovejoy

Area champions could be ready for a state tournament breakthrough thanks to two formidable pitchers Brittany Lewis and Danielle Brochu

Mansfield Legacy

Looking to improve on last year’s area round Game 3 loss to highly ranked Plano with pitcher Kendall Potts and Briana Walker

Plano

2011 5A state semifinalist must reload after losing talented senior class from highly ranked 2012 squad

Plano East

Coach Karen Kalhoefer will be challenged to replace key graduates from last years nationally ranked 5A state tournament team

Southlake Carroll

Christina Andrews and Lauren Heintzelman are back after being knocked out of playoffs by state semifinalist Plano East