FAIRHOPE, Ala. - Fairhope head coach Melissa Knight has three experienced seniors and a total of nine players returning with court time to Pirate Gym this year. Barely missing the playoffs last year, her seniors still remember the thrill of claiming an area title earlier in their careers and are eager to do it again.

“We have nine returners from last year,” Knight said. “We will be led on defense by our three seniors Sabriah Crenshaw, Brittney Domino, and Catherine Knight. All three, having experienced an area championship win two years ago, are daily striving to lead their team to post-season victories. I am also looking forward to seeing our offense perform throughout this season. Each of the girls has really taken huge strides in their individual positions.”

Fairhope had only two players graduate and so will field a deep line-up and bench roster which Knight hopes to fuel an emotionally charged, fired-up season.

“This year, with a number of strong returners we have been able to focus on practicing with a greater intensity, making smarter defensive/offensive decisions, and playing better collectively as a team.

The Pirates put the ball in play Aug. 29 hosting Mobile Christian, take part in the annual MGM tournament in Semmes, then open their area schedule at home against Foley Sept. 3. Fairhope will host its annual Back-to-School Bash Sept. 6-7.