The high school softball season begins tonight for the Greene County Rams. Veteran coach Tom Kennedy’s team travels to Saydel High School on Des Moines’ northeast side for Heart of Iowa Activities Conference action. The Rams were 10-18 last season after starting 0-8, while the Eagles were 14-15. The two teams split conference games a season ago.

Coach Kennedy sees the return of eight of last year’s 10 starters. The seniors are third baseman Izzy Bravard, second baseman Tieryn Tucker, and designated player Kyla Beyers. Outfielder Karissa Stephenson is the lone junior starter returning. Sophomore Carmyn Paup is slated to play shortstop, and three freshmen return after starting as eighth graders. That group includes pitcher Emma Hoyle, catcher Emma Stream, and outfielder Olivia Shannon.

Newcomers or first year varsity players will be counted on to round out the lineup. The coach thinks all phases of the game can be improved from a season ago.