Central, Jackson play at Cor Jesu

The Central and Jackson softball teams may get a chance to get plenty of game experience in a short time this weekend at the Cor Jesu Tournament at the Kirkwood, Mo., Athletic Association in St. Louis County.

Each of the eight teams is slated to play four games this weekend -- three in pool play and then in a final-round game 11 a.m. Saturday. At the time, the teams will be placed into four games to determine first through eighth places based on their pool play records.

"It's high-caliber competition but more than anything we get to go out there and play four games," Jackson coach Julie Rushing said. "That is what we need."

Rushing plans to use both senior Hannah Fowler and sophomore Darla Mangels on the mound during the tournament. Saturday will also see the first appearance of senior catcher Leslie McNeely, who becomes eligible. McNeely is one of five returning starters for the Indians.

Jackson is in a pool that includes Blue Springs, Cor Jesu and Lindbergh. The Indians open against Lindbergh, a final four team that has one of the state's premier pitchers in Sarah Dooley.

Central's pool also includes Jefferson City, St. Louis Notre Dame and Verdigris, Okla.