SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. - The Skidmore softball team opens its season Thursday at 1 p.m. when the Thoroughbreds take on Lyndon State College in doubleheader action. The contest will be held at the Adirondack Sports Complex in Queensbury, N.Y.

Skidmore looks to rebound from last season when it compiled an overall record of 13-24.  The Thoroughbreds hope to return to the Liberty League tournament after a two-year absence.

Skidmore will feature one of the conference's top ranked defenses, leading the league last year in fielding percentage (.957) while committing the fewest number of errors. The Thoroughbreds are also strong up the middle inducing 11 double plays ranking second only to Union's 14.

Catcher Carol Brown was one of the league's top defensive players with 21 assists, while hitting .306. Shortstop Abby Shea ranked fourth among conference infielders with 80 assists and outfielder Donata Lorenzo also ranked fourth in putouts with 245.  

Several key players are set to return, including Liberty League First-Team  selection Julia Schwartz who led the team in batting average (.409), hits (45) RBI (31) and doubles (12). Her batting average ranked fourth in the conference while her 12 doubles was among the league leaders. Katie Sorochka is also back after leading Skidmore with four homeruns, while batting .291. She was third on the team with 16 runs scored and led the Skidmore outfield with six assists.

Skidmore features seven newcomers this season that will compliment the leadership and experience of the returnees to play a critical role in the team's development.  

Skidmore will head south Mar. 9-14 for its annual Spring Break trip where it will compete in 10 games before returning home for a doubleheader against Castleton State on Mar. 23 at 1 p.m.