The Tigers will be under new leadership this season as Derek Fleek takes the reigns for his first stint as varsity head coach. He has spent six years as an assistant in the baseball program. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

The Albert Lea softball team has started outdoor practices to prepare for the 2019 season. The Tigers are coming off a 0-11 season in the Big Nine Conference. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

Fleek said based on how junior varsity did last season, he expects the team to be in the middle of the pack in the conference. He said the main strength of the team will be the depth they have at all positions. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

The Tigers start their season Tuesday with a road game at Stewartville. Their first home game is scheduled for Thursday against last year's state champions, Faribault. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

Fleek will be assisted by Karol Hansen at the varsity level. Mary Bissen will coach junior varsity and Derek Ihrke will coach the ninth-grade team. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune