English softball a mix of newcomers, veterans

English High softball coach Alisa Fila starts her 23rd year at the Bulldog helm with some veteran players and a large freshman class that she?s hoping might help round out the mix.Fila had 38 players show up for the first day of tryouts Monday and that number includes 21 freshmen.?It was a good first day,” Fila said. “We see some talent. We left with a positive feeling.”On the veteran side of the equation, Fila has senior center fielder Keri Bryson back in the fold. Bryson is one of three returning seniors. The other two are Jillian Ballard and Alyx Newhall, both of whom can play a variety of different positions.The junior class features a couple of pitchers in Brooke Holey and Shanna Zeramby. When Zeramby is not pitching, she is generally at shortstop and Holey, when not on the mound, will likely be at first base. Holey also did some damage with the bat last year.?This is definitely a building year all around,” Fila said. “I?m looking for those two (Zeramby and Holey) to come out strong.”The Bulldogs have a couple of non-league games on the schedule, including two against Masconomet, a familiar opponent the last few years, and Malden. English is coming off a 2-18 season.Fila?s coaching staff includes assistant Sarah Cuzmin; pitching coach Tiffany Drown and Leann Paula. Leandro Rodrigues will coach the junior varsity with former English player Jen Mageary.?It?s very encouraging with the freshmen … I?m seeing a lot of talent all around,” Fila said. “We?ll have a lot of options.”