Lady Tigers to debut against Emmett

The Mountain Home Lady Tigers open their 2013 softball season at home Thursday against Emmett.

Ron Nicolosi takes over as head coach of the Lady Tigers, who will be out to improve upon last year's 10-15 record. Nicolosi was a bit disappointed in the turnout for the softball program this year, but indicates what they lack in quantity, they make up for in quality.

"The numbers are down, but we've got a great core coming back, and we have some that have come out that are going to help the program. We've got some quality girls -- even the JV program's got some quality girls -- and I think at the end of the year we'll probably see some of those JV girls come up and help us by the end of the season."

Coach Nicolosi sees this year's conference race to be very competitive.

"I think it's going to be tight. I think, even though our numbers are down, we're going to be right there," he said. "Obviously, the top three teams last year at state were from our conference, so we've got a challenge, but I think we're right there and I think the parity in the league is going to be really good. I think Columbia might be the team to watch out for, however, you can't bypass Skyview and Kuna."

The Lady Tigers hosted a jamboree last Saturday with Emmett, Wood River and Jerome. Nicolosi was happy to have the chance to see his girls in a game-type situation before they start their season.

"I tell you what, they were so excited about this (Jamboree)," the coach said. "It's great to be out on the field, and we're really appreciative of Jerome, Wood River and Emmett coming over for this. It's only going to help us, and it's a great way to get into a game situation without worrying about injuries."

Mountain Home opens its season Thursday at home with a conference game against Emmett. Coach Nicolosi is looking forward to opening the season.

"Hopefully we can get revved up for that one," the coach said. "I think it will be a great matchup against Emmett. It will give us a good indication of where we're at."

First pitch is set for 4:30 p.m. Thursday at Memmelaar Field in Mountain Home.