Vicksburg coach Michelle Fisackerly has helmed the slow-pitch program for six years and hasn’t had a team quite like this.

When asked if she thinks this has the potential to be her best team yet, she doesn’t shy away from the question.

“Yes, I do believe so,” Fisackerly said. “Defensively and offensively, we look better than we have in a long time. It’s mainly age, because they’ve been together so long. This year and next year are going to be two of the better teams you’ve seen here in a long time.”

The key for the Missy Gators is their strongest lineup yet, both in the batter’s box and defensively. The Missy Gators have speed in their lineup thanks to Victoria Lewis, who had an inside-the-park grand slam in a doubleheader sweep of Jim Hill on Tuesday. She also provides an excellent glove in the outfield in left-center.

They have solid all-around hitters like Paige Bowser. who has moved temporarily to third base from left field due to an injury in the infield.

“Her hitting is good and she’s just an all-around great player to begin with,” Fisackerly said.

Kortni Newman has moved into the circle as the Missy Gators’ pitcher, allowing Faith Thomas to move to first base. Both are solid in the batter’s box too.

“I can’t be more impressed with my infield and my outfield,” Fisackerly said. “They’re a well-oiled machine. I couldn’t ask for a better group of players, infield or outfield. I’ve got years of experience out there and that’s looking good for us now.”

While Fisackerly worries that her team hasn’t faced the best competition so far, the Lady Vikes Invitational tournament at Warren Central this weekend will be a good test for her team. Yazoo City, Hazlehurst and Warren Central are on the schedule for Vicksburg in the round robin tournament.

“I’m looking forward to this weekend to see what we’re really made out of,” Fisackerly said.