The Hazen fastpitch squad is looking to improve on last year’s 8-8 record and make their way into this spring’s playoffs.

Despite the loss of all-league first teamer Ali Terzopolis and teammate Kayi Kniseley to graduation, Coach Kurt Brandel has high hopes.

This year, he expects seniors Megan Bridgman, Lauren Goss, Joanna Penner and Arianna William to help lead his squad, along with junior Kristina Holm and sophomore Isabel Teppner, both of whom are returning from last year’s team.

In addition, Brandel called freshman Monica Cleary a player to watch.

So far, the Highlander fastpitch squad is 0-2 to open the season and is next scheduled to play Renton at 3:30 p.m. Friday at Hazen, weather permitting.