(Sioux Falls) The Sioux Falls Canaries will kick off the 2008 season Thursday night at defending American Association champion Fort Worth.

The Canaries just missed out on a playoff berth last year. The successful campaign last year has many inside the organization excited for this year.

In 2007, the Canaries posted just the third winning record in franchise history, their first in six years as they finished 53-43. The turn-around season spilled into the off-season and has many inside the organization itching to prove last year's winning record was no fluke.

All star outfielder Will Smith says, "It feels like we got something to prove this year you know we had a lot on us last year, a lot of expectations."

Second year manager Steve Shirley re-signed several key veterans from last year's squad in Pat Mahomes, Ben VanIderstine and Will Smith and acquired second baseman Josh Patton from Lincoln. Shirley said those key veterans will be relied on heavily early in the year to lead the way.
Manager Steve Shirley says, "These are the guys, ambassadors maybe for us, guys that have been here, that have come back, that have enjoyed their experience, understand what independent baseball is all about, can answer questions. No matter how many times I would answer them, coming from me it's going to sound a little bit sale pitchy if you will. Where coming from other players it's a little easier for them to grasp it and realize it."

Last year, the Canaries exploded out of the gates as they won 15 of their first 20 games. All star outfielder Will Smith said getting off to that fast start last year was contagious in the clubhouse and says it's important that the Birds get off to another solid start in '08.
"Nothing good can come out of losing. You know people start turning on each other. If we get off to a good start, it will just snow-ball," Smith said.
Relief pitcher Chris Regas says, "You know I've been on several losing teams in my career and you still have fun because you are playing the game, but winning just gives you that much more to play for."

The Canaries open the season Thursday at Fort Worth.