The Gloucester High School varsity softball team returns for the season with a home scrimmage against York tomorrow and will play its first official game of the season against Kecoughtan on Tuesday.

The Lady Dukes will travel to Stoney Run Athletic Complex, Newport News, Tuesday to face the Warriors. Gloucester will then travel to Kecoughtan next Thursday to complete the two-game series. Both games are scheduled for a 4:30 p.m. start.

Last season, the Lady Dukes had a record of 22-1 and earned the softball program’s first region title. Gloucester will try to overcome numerous season-ending injuries in its quest to reach a fourth state tournament, according to head coach David “Red” Lindsay.

Five starters return this year, including catcher Cameron Palas, centerfielder Hannah Horsley, right fielder Alexis Dishman, pitcher Autumn Cookson and short stop Tessa Carteret. Returning player Lilly Hogan is slated to play first base for Gloucester.

Avery West is expected to pitch and play third base for the Lady Dukes, as well as hit near the top of the lineup. Addison Keister is set for second base, while Kyndall Sales will play left field. Other players this season include outfielders Brynna Tayman and Savannah Shahan and first baseman Ava Smith.

“Coach [Jason] Burns and I are excited for the season,” said Lindsay. “We have numerous injuries to work around; however, success is always our expectation.”