When she was named Catasauqua’s new softball head coach, former Rough Riders’ standout Erika Proctor was ecstatic to continue on a journey she loves.

“The sport has given me so much that I wanted to be able to give back and be a part of the game in any capacity,” said Proctor, a 2010 Roughie graduate and former varsity assistant coach. “I loved playing and played as much as I could, even playing slow pitch.

“I am glad to have the opportunity to make an impact in students’ athletic lives.”

Proctor, who replaced Paige Kogelman, inherits a team that went 11-11 overall and advanced to the second round of the Class 2A district tournament. The Roughies lost five senior starters and six overall, led by pitcher Delaney Troxell, who holds several team records and is currently playing at Millersville University.

At the moment, Proctor will be challenged, piecing together a team with little depth and experience.

“We will be rebuilding,” stressed Proctor. “The nine we have will be put to the test.”

Juniors Makayla Bird and Briana Deschaine will take over on the mound and behind the plate respectively. Bird previously pitched in middle school, and Deschaine will be counted on for her power in the cleanup spot.

“They are going to be taking over the helm after watching Delaney Troxell’s great pitching career and Sophia Becker being a catalyst behind the plate,” added Proctor. “Troxell and Becker began prepping Bird and Deschaine for this season by giving tips and advice on pitching, knowing our pitching will be our greatest test this season.”

Senior Maliah “MJ” Price will return at second base, and fellow senior Katrina Mullen will take over at first base. Sophomore Ava Wetzel will be at third base.

“MJ will bring her quality at bats to the plate,” noted Proctor. “Katrina saw more playing time last year and gained more experience there, locking down our defense on the right side. Ava saw some playing time at third last year, and she should make the transition.”

Junior Madison Monberger will split time at short with freshman Madison Beierle.

In the outfield, Monberger will also see time there along with sophomore Rylee Meisner, Boshell and freshman Lydia Broderick.

It truly will be a process for the first-year coach, who also played catcher at Misericordia University. Proctor also was the head middle school coach for five seasons.

“We will be young,” said Proctor. “The girls have a good work ethic, and we’ll see what happens.”