The Roadrunner softball team will open the 2023 season with plenty of high hopes, entering the new spring No. 6 in the NJCAA Division III pre-season national rankings.

Coach Steve DePasquale, who enters his 29th season at the helm, is optimistic that his team's experience will carry them to to a successful 2023 campaign.

"We have experience at most positions plus we have some talented freshmen," DePasquale said. "The team is working hard, so hopefully it's just a matter of time when we put it all together."

The squad opens the season Tuesday afternoon with a doubleheader vs. Division II rival Mercer County Community College. First pitch is set for 2:30 pm in Game 1.

2023 Season Preview

Coach: Steve DePasquale, 29th season; 823-380-3 career record. Led program to Division III National Championships in 2011 and 2012.

Assistant Coach: Bill Collins.

Last Season: In 2022, DePasquale's club registered a 37-19 overall record; 15-3 in Garden State Athletic Conference, and earning a playoff berth in the North Atlantic District tournament.

Season Opener: March 7, doubleheader at home vs. D-II rival Mercer County Community College. Game 1 first pitch set for 2:30 pm.

Returning players: Paige Fox, So., RF, Middle Twp.; Emily MacGibeny, So., SS, Paul VI; Flynn Blessing, So., CF, Highland Regional; Janiece Robles, So., P, Cardinal Spellman, Bronx, NY/Neumann University; Julia Petroski, So, OF, Timber Creek; Morgan Fitzpatrick, So., C, Washington Twp.; Brianna Cahall, So., C, Deptford.

Newcomers: Gemma Galloway, Fr., P, Gateway Regional; Anna Cirucci, Fr., 2B, Williamstown; Dana Medlar, Fr., OF, Audubon; Caitlin Jackson, Fr., 3B, Timber Creek; Emily Adams, Fr., P, N. Burlington.

Coach Steve DePasquale on his 2023 Roadrunners: "We have a very tough schedule, but the players have worked hard and are ready for the challenge. There are no easy teams on our schedule, and it should be a lot of fun to watch this team grow and improve as the season progresses."