Shields hoping to lead turnaround for Johnson softball

OAKWOOD -- Kacie Shields knows her team has a long way to go, but she and her charges believe they are about to take a big step forward over the coming weeks and months.

Shields is beginning her first preseason in charge of the Johnson High softball program and has high hopes for the future.

"I think this group won just three games last year; there's no easy way to improve on that and get to where we want to be, but I've got a good, strong core group, and we're excited about the challenge," Shields said. "They're excited to work hard and are as excited as I am."

Taking charge of her first varsity program, Shields says she is ready to make her mark.

"I played softball in high school and college and have a passion for the sport," said Shields, who played for Young Harris, where she graduated before moving on to the University of Georgia. Shields earned her degree in math education in Athens. "I saw the opening at Johnson and just jumped on it."

Shields has been coaching at the youth level for several years and is also currently coaching a travel squad.

The new Lady Knights coach says she hopes to implement a strong work ethic in Oakwood.

"The first thing I want my players to know is that hard work pays off," Shields said. "The second thing is that they have to be good team players and learn to love each other as teammates."

Shields is already starting to get the hang of her post, as Johnson is going through a series of preseason practices -- though the meat of preseason will kick in after next week.

"We have dead week coming up, then we'll be going four-five days a week," said Shields, who added that she was encouraged by what she's seen so far from her new players. "We've had great turnouts so far, and they're ready to go."