BIDDEFORD — The defending Class A champion Biddeford softball team is preparing to defend its title in the 2017 spring, and has a new-look team to do so.

The Tigers graduated three key seniors, and also hired a new coach after the departure of former manager Ray Magnant. Between returning playmakers and a fresh batch of newcomers, Biddeford believes it has a chance to once again contend for a title this season.

“The girls were state champions last year but lost a nucleus of players. We’ve got some good young players that are ready to step into their roles … it’s their turn to step up and play,” said new Biddeford coach Mike Fecteau.

Fecteau is looking forward to getting to know his players, and is excited to inherit the defending champs.

“I’ve been involved with softball for awhile so its great to get back into it, I love the game. I’m excited to be back with the program, I’m excited to be a part of this,” said Fecteau.

Despite the roster turnover, the Tigers return players such as Amber Magnant, Alex Chase and 2016 Southwestern Maine Activities Association and Journal Tribune MVP Brook Davis. The three leaders have established themselves as top-notch players on the field, and are prepared to help guide the younger Tigers as well.

“We have a young team and we want to show them the love of softball, what us seniors have had for four years,” said Magnant. “We want to make sure they see it, have fun on the field and work hard every single day.”

Teamwork will be key, according to Chase.

“Definitely communication — we have a young team so I think bringing back that team chemistry from last year is the most essential thing,” said Chase.

Although the Tigers are on the younger side, leaders such as Magnant, Chase and Davis are some of the few players in the state to have experienced a state title run. 

Davis hopes to use that experience to lead the way, while also remembering the lessons learned from previous captains as well.

“We have been playing softball together since we were little. We’ve been a big family keeping it going,” said Davis. “Jocelyn (Moody) was a great captain, Erin (Martin) was a great captain as well. We looked up to them and we learned a lot from them, they were great role models for us.”

“They’ve been through it and they know what it takes to win a championship,” added Fecteau. “You’re excited when you’re older … for the seniors it’s their last hurrah. The team chemistry has been good, the girls have been working hard in practice, they’re itching to get going.”

Some might say the Tigers are going through a rebuild, but Fecteau recognizes the expectations of the community, and expects his club to rise to the challenge.

“Biddeford softball is a tradition — you’re always expected to make the playoffs and make a big run,” said Fecteau. “I think for us right now it’s not abut where you start it’s where you finish, if we can get better each game. The girls are excited.”

— Associate Sports Editor Alex Sponseller can be reached at asponseller@journaltribune.com or at 282-1535 ext. 323. Follow the Journal Tribune Sports Department on Twitter @JournalTsports.