A mix of returners and fresh faces make up the roster for Perry softball, who opened their season strong with a win over Tucson on Feb. 24, as well as emerging runner-up in the Red Mountain Tournament.

The team, which went 22-15 last season, is setting the standard high after a bittersweet finish.

“Last year we made it to top eight, which is something we haven’t done before, so this year we hope to make it further than that,” said senior Jordyn Spencer.

With many players having been fostered through the Perry program, the team is a cohesive unit more ready than ever to make it to the top.

“I hope that we win state, but more than anything I hope we compete with every team we play,” said junior Jordan Pierson.

Preparing for the ever-tough Premier section, the team has focused on unity — something emphasized by Coach Robert Hehe.

“The hard thing for all of our sports are the new region we’re in,” said Principal Dan Serrano. “It’s highly competitive.”

The Pumas, who had a batting average of .319 and a fielding percentage of .889 last season, have been refining core skills throughout February to prepare them for any level of competition.

“Practices are centered around a lot of teambuilding, being more familiar with how each person plays next to you, so that you can play together as a whole,” said Spencer.

The end of the month will be a test for the Pumas, who face reigning Hamilton back-to-back on Mar. 30 and 31.

“Hamilton always has a good team,” said Pierson. “They’re defending state champions so everyone is really excited to play them later this season.”

Hamilton, who batted .397 and fielded .947 last season, beat Pinnacle 3-0 in the state championship last year.

“They took it last year and they didn’t lose a lot of their star players,” said Spencer. “We didn’t really either so they’re going to be our biggest competition.”

With a team filled with familiar faces, the expectation for success is high.

“We’ve had the same coaches for the last three years which has really helped because we have that relationship with our coaches and that trust,” said Spencer. “As far as the girls go, we respect each other and are able to coach each other.”

Having teammates who work like a machine is most definitely an asset for the Pumas, and continuing to play like family is key to their success this season.