The Barton Community College softball team under fourth year head coach Tyler Gunelson has been picked second according to league member coaches for the upcoming 2021 Division I KJCCC East Conference season.

The Cougar's 2020 campaign was halted nineteen games into the slate due to the Covid-19 pandemic, finishing 3-3 in conference play and 10-9 overall.

Butler Community College topped the poll with Hutchinson Community College and Independence Community College coming under the Cougars in the third and fourth slot respectively.

The Cougars took a hit at the top of their offensive production chart but return five starters including leadoff hitter and short stop Kayli Dryden followed up by the clean up hitter first baseman Brooke McCollough and third baseman Bailie Stanley.

Joining the trio in the infield, Ashlee Lucero returns in the center circle with Lexi Dryden and Kaylee Milligan anchoring the outfield.

Barton begins the season on the road, first at Hesston College on February 10 followed by a four-game set at North Arkansas College February 12-13. The Cougars' home opener is slated February 16 against Central Christian College.