Tupper Lake softball team (Enterprise photo — Justin A. Levine)

TUPPER LAKE — Tupper Lake’s varsity softball coach Courtney Manhard has taken the helm after two years of guiding the modified squad, which means she is already familiar with most of the girls on the team.

“We’re young,” she said. “A lot of girls I had in modified came up. We’re a small team, but I think they’re optimistic this year. I think they’re eager to play.”

The have just two seniors on the roster, along with three juniors and five sophomores. Although young, Manhard said there are some solid leaders on the team.

“Right now, Rebecca Delair and Ziona Oldham are our two seniors,” she said. “Kailyn Exware has been there for us. I think she’s going to be our unsung hero this year. But there a lot of young, eager kids willing to play too.”

Manhard said moving from modified to varsity eases the transition since she knows the girls and the girls are familiar with her coaching style. Manhard has also coached basketball, so many of the girls have been with her for more than just a season or two.

“I’ve had them over the years,” she said. “They know my style, my expectations, my way of handling situations. So it’s been an easy transition.

“I know we’ve struggled in the past so the goal is to get a few wins and kind of pick up some momentum and build a program. To get a few wins and keep a positive attitude would be great. They’re generally pretty happy, but getting a few wins is always great.

“I had a lot of the girls in modified, so hopefully they’re eager to play.”