After winning 40 games last season, the Lions look to stay competitive this season under first-year head coach Ashley Cozart.

According to Sports Information, Cozart comes to UNA from Lindsay Wilson College, which competes under the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.

Cozart compiled a record of 191-45 while leading her team to four straight regular season and tournament conference titles.

She was also recognized as coach of the year three years in a row in the Mid-South Conference.

“We are so excited to have Ashley join our staff,” said Athletics Director Mark Linder. “She brings excellent recruiting to the state of Alabama and we are ready for her to lead our softball program.”

The Lions have four returning starters and will be led by lone senior Shelby Goodman.

“It’s important for me to play hard and to have a good attitude,” Goodman said. “As a senior on this team, I need to always lead by example.”

Holly Barkley will move from second base to shortstop this coming season and is expected to play several innings for the Lions.

“She’s always the girl that’s going to be on base and have the most dirt on her,” Cozart said. “She just plays so hard.”

Junior college transfer Bree Blevins comes in after being part of a national championship team at Wallace State Community College.

Blevins should give the Lions a solid starter in the rotation, Cozart said.

“Bree is a competitor who has great determination and throws the ball so well,” Cozart said. “I think she will give us a big lift this year.”

The Lions will look to the newcomers to give the team a boost this season, Cozart said.

“We’re going to need everyone’s contribution this year,” Cozart said. “To be successful, everybody has to play their part.”

The Lions open their season with a doubleheader at home Saturday, Feb. 1 against Young Harris College.

The following week, the Lions will turn their attention to the University of Alabama-Huntsville Charger Chillout Tournament.

The tournament schedule starts Friday, Feb. 7 and ends Sunday, Feb. 9.

The Lions will face six different opponents spanning three days.

“I believe we can be extremely competitive this year,” Cozart said. “If we can stay healthy and win the big games at the right time, we should be in the mix for a conference championship.”