The Lady Tigers have already won more games than they did all of last year. And they have only played seven games so far this season.

Overall, Alcovy is 5-2 but 6-2 if you include the scrimmage game against rival Newton in which the Lady Tigers won earlier this year.

"We're playing a lot of young kids," said Alcovy head coach Casey Bates. "To be honest with you, those freshmen are playing a lot (and) dressing for varsity; we're young again."

Of course, one wouldn't necessarily know it based on Alcovy's impressive start.

According to Bates, Alcovy freshman pitcher Dallas Hardin has taken over the number one role as far as pitching is concerned. In addition, Hardin is the leadoff batter.

"She's done a great job for us," acknowledged Bates.

Last year, it took the Lady Tigers until September 12 to win their second game of the season. My, what a difference a year makes.

Despite getting shutout by Habersham Central, 6-0, in its first region game of the year Tuesday, Alcovy has looked like a completely different unit compared to the 2006 version.

"Well, I guess it's the team clicking together a little bit more," said Bates of his squad's recent success. "This year we played some teams in the Social Circle Tournament (and) won four out of five games, placing second. (We're) getting a lot of confidence building."

Although the Lady Tigers lost two starters from the previous season, they have three seniors who have helped fill in the void.

Bates is looking forward to the next game against Morgan County (4-1-1) on Tuesday night at home because of his friendship with the head coach, Anne Stamps.

"Morgan County is always strong," said Bates. "We scheduled them because (Stamps) and I are pretty good friends. But playing a strong team and program like (Morgan County) can only make us better."