Sixteen games into the season, softball sits at a 2-14 record, but have the ability to change the course of their season with the start of ODAC play this weekend.

The Panthers will have double-headers against Sweet Briar on the road Sunday and host Virginia Wesleyan Monday.

“New season starts this weekend. We are 0-0 in conference. There are still opportunities to have a successful season,” Head Coach Joshua Freeman said.

Freeman said their competitive non-conference schedule has the team prepared for what’s to come in ODAC play.

“There is only one team with a losing record, and most of those games have been on the road,” Freeman said. “That has prepared us to play a very competitive conference schedule.  Nothing should surprise us or be new to us as we go into conference play.”

During spring break the women scored 28 runs in the six games played.  Since then, the team has only plated three runs in the last six games.

“Just have to get back to having good at-bats.  I think we are trying to do a little bit too much at the plate,” Freeman said.

Sweet Briar holds a 7-6 record without any conference games played.  Virginia Wesleyan has a 9-4 record with a 1-1 record in conference after splitting a series against Randolph-Macon.

“The team needs to continue to grind out good at-bats.  The pitching and defense have to continue to improve,” Freeman said on the team’s keys to success this weekend.

Prior to ODAC play beginning for the Lady Panthers, they have the bottom spot in the conference, but with a fresh slate beginning Sunday, the team hasn’t lost any fiery spirit.

“The players are working hard and being good teammates daily,” Freeman said. “They feel like I do, we can turn this season around in ODAC play.”