CHADRON - The Chadron State College softball team will open its 2014 season by playing five games in three days at the Montana State University-Billings Desert Stinger for the fifth-straight year.
 
The Desert Stinger features 32 teams making it the largest tournament in Division II.
 
Head coach Dr. Robert Stack said he is looking forward to the tournament and is eager to see at what level the Eagles can compete.
 
"We have quite a few new faces and returning players who have not seen a lot of playing time so we want to see how they transition," Stack said. "We are strong in the circle so that will help us going into this tournament, which is considered to be one of the strongest in Division II."
 
Chadron State will match up against five teams in three days beginning with a double-header against Central Washington University and Simon Fraser University on Friday.  The Eagles will then play Azusa Pacific University and California Baptist University on Saturday before rounding out the tournament against St. Mary's University on Sunday.
 
Chadron State ended the 2013 season with a 14-24 record, including a 12-19 mark in the RMAC.   
 
"This season we are building a much more consistent offense," Stack said. "Last year we lost our last six games and only scored a total of six runs in those games. We are looking to bring some offensive consistency back."
 
The roster includes 20 players, four of which are returning starters. Of the returners, Katie Londo, third-baseman from Colorado Springs, Colo., carries over a promising .353 batting average and 50 total bases.
 
"Londo has been a starter since she's been here and has always hit very well," Stack said. "We hope to see her power numbers come back this year."
 
Rebecca Wetsch, an outfielder from Erie, Colo., also returns. She paced the Eagles with a .323 batting average, five homers and 54 total bases last season.
 
Two other returning starters for Chadron State are designated player Sarah Knudsen and outfielder Shea Graham.
 
The Eagles also bring back starting pitchers Aryn Grywusiewicz and Kylee Polsley.
 
"These two know what it takes to pitch in our conference," Stack said. "Their pitching styles complement each other and give us a good mix."
 
Following the Desert Stinger, Chadron State will hit the road again to play five games at St. Edwards's University in Austin, Texas.
 
The Eagles' home opener is Feb. 22.