IMMACULATA, Pa. - The Immaculata softball team is ready to kick off their 2022 season on Wednesday as they begin their season with a doubleheader at home against Washington College. 
 
Under first-year head coach Stefanie Feinstein, the Mighty Macs are scheduled for a 36-game season following a conference-only season in 2021. Last season, the Macs earned a 5-16 record with a 4-14 conference mark. In the Atlantic East Tournament, the Macs went 1-2, defeating Neumann 7-2 while dropping two games against the No. 1 seed Wesley. 
 
"I'm feeling very optimistic about this season," began Feinstein. "Our team has been working hard over the last month and I am excited to finally get out on the field and get going."
 
The Macs return several key members of their lineup this season. Sara Rode posted a .378 batting average and team-high 28 hits, while Cat Knoll posted a .370 batting average while leading the team with six doubles as both players appeared in all 21 games last season. The Macs also return key lineup pieces in Jess Oldham, Hayley Evans, and Alyssa Daly.
 
"Our starting lineup will be a threat 1 through 9 in the batter's box," said Feinstein. "Speed on the bases complimented by some big bats should propel our offense. I think our defense will surprise a lot of people and it will be fun to watch. It's tough to tell who our breakout players might be just yet, but I have high hopes for newcomer, Bryele Anthony, and sophomore, Hayley Evans--both offensively and defensively."
 
Meanwhile, Sarah Guido and Kayley Peugh highlight the Macs' returners on the mound this season. Guido made a team high 11 starts and led the team in innings pitched(54.1) and strikeouts(15). Peugh, on the other hand, was 2nd on the team with 10 appearances out of the bullpen. 
 
"All of our pitchers have been working hard this offseason and preseason," described Feinstein. "I anticipate Sarah Guido to continue to be a workhorse for the Macs going into her senior season. The rest of our staff has absolutely earned their innings in the circle, each of them with different strengths to compliment each other and help us play the game within the game."
 
 
The Macs will start off their season with 12 straight non-conference matchups including a week long trip to Naples, Florida. They will then open up their Atlantic East Conference schedule on Saturday, March 19th as they host Marywood University
 
"My message to the team going into this year is simple: you set your goals for this season. You've put the work in physically, mentally, and emotionally. Let the fun begin!" concluded Feinstein.