McKeesport, Pa- The Penn State Greater Allegheny softball team returns in 2012 looking to improve upon a tough 2011 campaign.  The Lady Lions were unable to get a victory, but return many key players and will look to talented transfers and Freshmen to propel their season. 

  GA returns five women from last year's squad, including First Team All-Conference performer, Sophomore Sam Segiel (Norwin).  Four other Sophomores return, including:  Taryn Flaherty (McKeesport), Kaitlyn Kirkpatrick (Elizabeth Forward), Sydney McMullen (Trinity) and Jo Lane Jordan (McKeesport).

  The Lady Lions will also look to a key transfer, Sophomore Casey Naylor (South Allegheny).  Naylor comes to GA after playing at Slippery Rock University last season, and will be heavily relied on; says head coach, Amanda Maksin, "She is a tremendous power hitter, proving invaluable during her years in high school.  Playing several different positions now, Casey has the potential to be a game maker this season."

  Several Freshmen will look to contribute and compete for playing time, including Kelli Hall (McKeesport) and Colleen Kuplast (Cranston East, RI).  Hall will be looked upon for leadership and her strong ability to play multiple infield positions.  On Kuplast, coach Maksin comments, "(Colleen Kuplast) is a freshman from Rhode Island that has a plethora of experience playing softball around the country.  Playing summer ball, travel ball, and high school softball, Colleen has the most experience pitching and playing the infield, as well as the most consistent bat."

   Five other Freshmen will vie for starting jobs, including three athletes who have played on other Greater Allegheny teams in previous seasons.  Audra Besnak (Steel Valley) and Megan Carroll (Ramona Convent, CA) both starred on the volleyball team, while Taylor McCallister (Norwin) did the same for women's basketball.  Theresa Gionta (Mission Viejo, CA) and Daffiny Oderinde (Parkdale, MD) both come from out-of-state to play for GA, and round out the 2012 squad.

   The Greater Allegheny women will open their season Saturday, March 31, as the travel to take on NAIA foe, Carlow Unviersity.  The schedule is full of PSUAC opponents, and the Lady Lions will open conference play against Penn State Worthington-Scranton on April 1.