Richards Looks to LaBeau, Tobin to Lead the Way

Coach: Julie Folliard

Last year's record: 24-10 overall, 15-4 in the South Suburban Red, 1-1 in the postseason. Richards lost to Tinley Park in the regional finals. 

Opener: Tuesday (March 15), home vs. Resurrection

Quick hit: “I love the various pieces of our 2011 puzzle our versatility brings,” Folliard says. “We will need to play hard, play smart, have fun and be patient to exceed our goals.”

Brianna LeBeau: A junior pitcher and infielder, LeBeau hit .453 last season with a slugging percentage of .769. She had seven home runs, 12 doubles and two triples. On the mound, she went 11-4 with an 0.64 ERA. She struck out 172, averaging 9.5 strikeouts per game. She was a two-time SSC All-Conference selection and the 2009 SSC Player of the Year.

Hannah Jenkins: The junior shortstop/second baseman hit .420 last season with a slugging percentage of .580, with two homers, eight doubles and two triples. She is a two-time SSC All-Conference selection.

Kailie Tobin: The senior outfielder and pitcher hit .458 last season with a slugging percentage of .561 with seven doubles and two triples. On the mound, she was 4-0 with an ERA of 0.29. She is a three-time SSC All-Conference selection.

Jordan Battles: The freshman outfielder is expected to be a good addition to the offensive lineup.

The Bulldogs are looking forward to the upcoming season after an early exit against Tinley Park in last year’s regional finals. The Bulldogs return five starters and will rely on LeBeau and Tobin to lead the team on the mound and at the plate. LeBeau should once again be one of the top pitchers in the area, while Tobin has much mound experience and has the chance to be a top pitcher as well.  “We are all excited to break into another exciting year,” Folliard said.  “We have an exciting mix of experienced talent and developing talent.”

College recruits: LeBeau, verbally committed to Northwestern; Tobin, considering Butler and Drake.