Spring officially arrives on Sunday, but that hasn’t stopped Gloucester and Mathews athletes from venturing out of doors for the start of the spring ball season. In photo at top, Mathews High School softball assistant coach Nelson Morris, left, and head coach Robert Thomas watch as catcher Virginia Scatchard attempts to tag out Sydney Morgan at the plate in practice on Monday. At right, MHS pitcher Nick Stump throws some heat over the plate in baseball practice. In bottom photo, Gloucester High School junior catcher/outfielder Josh Martin practices a bunt as Jacob Houston heads for home during drills on Monday. Practice paid off with the Dukes winning 13-6 at Phoebus the following day. Photos by Charlie Koenig.

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