The Missouri Southern Softball team hasn’t lost focus. The past few games have proven to be a bumps in the road, but the Lions just keep on rolling.

Senior Julie “JT” Taylor sumed up the focus of the Lions in one philosophical sentence.

“I think focusing on our record right now will only keep us there,” Taylor said.

The Lions look to rebound after an 0-4 performance at the Pittsburg State University tournament last weekend.

The Lions have had trouble winning games on the road this year, playing very good teams in preparation for MIAA play.

The Lions finally get to enjoy a tournament at home this upcoming weekend as the Teri (Mathis) Zimmer Memorial Tournament comes to Joplin.

The Lions are looking forward to the tournament, hoping it will help them find their stride.

“I think playing at home always gets the team pumped and ready to play,” Taylor said.

“I think it has always brought success for us. So I believe our team will find their stride, start playing as a team and get some big W’s”

Junior shortstop Andrea Childs knows from experience that more game situations are never a bad thing, wether you are winning or losing.

“The weather doesn’t look like it is wanting to cooperate for us this weekend, however, if we do get the opportunity to play then, of course, the tourney will help us – the more game situations we are in, the better we are going to get,” Childs said.

Despite a rocky start for the team this year, the veteran leaders know not to lose sight of their goals.

In the MIAA, one good weekend of games could make the difference in a whole season.

“Our primary focus has been attacking the ball every time we swing, and everything would come together after that. The hits, runs, etc,” Childs said.

“One of our goals is to finish top 4 in the MIAA. So far, we have played a few top-ranked teams in the nation to help prepare us for conference play.”

Not to be outdone, Taylor added where all her credit should go.

“The only personal goals I have set is to give everything I have for my team and only to my team and give God all the glory,” Taylor said.

“Just keep my head up no matter what happens and never take it for granted. Everyday on that field is a gift!”

You can catch the Lions in action, weather permitting, this weekend at the Teri (Mathis) Zimmer Memorial tournament March 7 and 8.