IN BRIEF: Eagles Shoot for 7th Straight District Title

There's a level of pressure that comes with playing varsity softball at Lakeland. But historically the Eagles have embraced that pressure.

Lakeland will be the favorites to capture a seventh straight championship, an expectation that comes with appearing in the state quarterfinals for the last six years. The Eagles will face Hartland, a 7-1 pre-district winner over Fenton on Tuesday, Saturday afternoon at noon in Hartland.

That might be the game that ultimately decides the district title. Holly and Milford will square off in the other semifinal.

"We're fortunate to get a bye and only had to face one of those (Hartland or Fenton) teams because both are very good and well-coached," said Lakeland head coach Joe Alsup. "That's the thing about the state playoffs - you have to come prepared to play in every game because one loss and you're done."

Lakeland lost to Hartland 11-3 in its second game of the regular season but has improved significantly since then, averaging 12 hits per game over the last month and committing fewer than 10 errors in the last 20 games, Alsup said. That defense could carry Lakeland to a deep playoff run because it appears the offense will be there with hitters like Kelsey Cleary and Kelsey Johnson in the lineup.

Michelle Stiltner and Selena Hicks will continue to carry the load on the mound for Lakeland.

Hartland has a strong offense, so Lakeland's defense will need to continue to be very good, Alsup said.

"We understand the strengths (district opponents) have and there are some teams with a good defense and an aggressive offense," Alsup said. "If we play to our potential I'm very confident, but it won't be easy."