With a veteran core, Catasauqua’s softball team took a trip back to the district playoffs last season.

Now, the Rough Riders are looking to extend their progress from last season, but they are having trouble finding some solid footing. Catty did lose mainstays such as center fielder Cora Soltis, first baseman Nayeska Miranda, and shortstop Alivia June to graduation.

With a 1-0 loss to Saucon Valley Monday, the Roughies fell to 0-3 on the season and produced just two runs in three games. They also have been slowed by injuries to starters: catcher senior Sophia Becker and sophomore infield Briana Deschaine, both of whom are expected to return.

Head coach Paige Kogelman believes her team can find its niche with their two injured starters scheduled to return soon.

“We have to find a new rhythm,” she stressed. “They just weren’t impactful players but also leaders. Though they continue to support and lead from the sidelines, it’s not the same. Some of the team’s heart is missing, and it’s missing in some of the team’s heart. The girls will continue to fight and adapt, but we hope they return shortly to make the team whole again.”

Senior pitcher Delaney Troxell, who threw a no-hitter in the 1-0 loss to Saucon Valley and was the victim of two costly errors, sees the slow start as a matter of adjustment.

“We lost a few key players who were very influential the past three years,” offered Troxell. “We are trying new girls in new positions to see what the best option for the team is. The new girls are getting used to the speed of the game at the varsity level.”

Kogelman is confident her team can stay the course. Catty had a 4-1 win over Schuylkill Haven in their district opener last year before they fell to Northern Lehigh, 4-3, in the next round. Senior outfielders Jane Armbruster and Delanie Popa along with sophomore shortstop McKayla Bird are also back in the fold this season.

“We started slow, but I do not expect that to slow us down,” she said. “Most of this team got a look at the postseason last year and they want to right back there. We have an amazing group of seniors leading our team and if there’s anyone more determined than me it’s them and that’s an inspiring thing to have.”