With seven returning players from last year’s playoff team, the Mexico varsity softball squad is looking to build on a solid 2007 campaign.

The Tigers made last year’s Section III Class A playoffs, but fell 3-2 to Phoenix in the opening round.

“We want to get a high seed in the sectionals and get past the first round,” Mexico coach Andy MacDonald said.

Senior pitcher Rachel Verdoliva leads the cast of returnees for Mexico. She will be backed up by junior Whitney Gayne.

Senior returnees Kim Norton and Chelsie Cleveland anchor the middle of the infield at shortstop and second base, respectively. Sophomore Brittany Taylor is also competing for time at shortstop.

Emily Casbeer and sophomore Megan Gayne are battling for the starting spot at catcher. There’s also competition at first base with junior Halie Squires and senior Nicolette LaBouef vying for the nod.

MacDonald said junior Lindsey Nelson and senior returnee Sam Race are battling for the starting spot at third base.

Returnees Jonell Yablonski, Alicia Nipper, and Chelsea Giovo are leading candidates for the outfield positions.

MacDonald said the team’s experience is its primary strength. Other areas are improving.

“They’ve all been working very hard at becoming better hitters. We’ve been swinging the bats a lot, and we’re a good defensive team,” he said.

The Tigers are scheduled to open their season April 2 at Chittenango. Mexico’s league is very competitive, MacDonald said.

“I think Phoenix is the team to get,” he said. Jamesville-DeWitt and Homer are also strong, he added.

One highlight of the schedule for Mexico is participating in the Strike Out Cancer Tournament April 26 in Oswego along with the host Bucs, Pulaski, and Fulton. Proceeds from the tourney will benefit the American Cancer Society.

“It will be a good time and a good cause,” MacDonald said.