Sheer athleticism may be the Pine-Richland Rams best quality as they start the season. The Rams have lost 11 seniors as well as Brett Mollenhauer, who moved out of the state during the off season.

With all of the movement, Rams' head coach Kurt Wolfe said there will be a lot of opportunities for kids to step up and earn some playing time.

"We are feeling a lot of kids out with so many positions up for grabs," Wolfe said. "It is fun to see who will step in."

Wolfe said since seniors are kind of the natural leaders, players like Steve Freehling, Brendan Scoiscia and Dan Yesenoski will set an example for the rest of the guys to follow. The junior class will also provide some leadership as well as talent, as pitchers Vinny Nittoli and T.J. Kuban will offer a lot to the team this year.

Sophomore Matt Berezo will take over at shortstop for Mollenhauer. Another player who has been a nice surprise is pitcher Jeff Schukert, who already has two wins under his belt.

The Rams section is a very tough one, and they are anxious to show they belong. The Rams won the AAA state championship two years ago, and are planning to return to their winning ways this season.

"The kids are hungry," Wolfe said. "They are anxious to show they belong here and make people understand that we have a good program here."

Wolfe is also very excited about the team chemistry this season. He added that there is a lot of respect for one another and the players come ready to work every day.

"They really want to win for each other," Wolfe said. "It is very important we have that. We also have a nice mix of classes."