"Our goals are to win a conference championship, have a competitive JV program, and have a 3.0 team GPA," said second-year head coach Jeremy Cantrell.

Bethany lost several key players from their 2009 squad, one of which was second baseman and outfielder Craig Barnes. "He was a great senior leader," Cantrell said, "and was consistent and had solid production all year."

Also a key loss was right-handed pitcher Bryan Guyett. "He was clearly our number one last year," said Cantrell. "We hope to replace him with depth rather than talent."

New additions for the Swedes are highlighted by two junior transfer catchers, Logan Kanamu and Mike Yingling. According to Cantrell, Kanamu is a "great catch and throw guy, great speed for a catcher, and a harder worker" while Yingling adds a "great leader, great energy, and plays with passion" to the table.

In addition to some strong incomers, Bethany also showcases several key returners. Senior Bryan Wojtkiewicz, an all-conference left-handed relief pitcher, will help lead the pitching staff.

"He is stronger and healthier this year," said Cantrell, "and has a tremendous work ethic."

Also returning is senior outfielder Daryl Schlepp, who Cantrell feels is a "leader by example, finished strong last year, and knows his role this year."

This season, Cantrell has emphasized several key things with his squad, including playing "solid defense, throwing strikes, and being aggressive at the plate and base paths."

Bethany's 2010 campaign also highlights the bigger picture for Cantrell and the Swedes.

"We want to have good continuity and chemistry throughout the season," Cantrell said, "to take advantage of the new facilities/weight room on campus to ensure staying healthy throughout the season, and to compete every day as hard as we can to continue to build a foundation to be a consistently winning program."

The Swedes opened their season on the road with a series at Wayland Baptist University in Plainview, Texas with two losses. They hit the road once again for a weekend series against the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma Feb. 13 and 14.