Bullard’s Kirstin Malone.

TYLER LEGACY LADY RAIDERS

Head coach: Justin Kniffen (7th year at Legacy, 76-71-2; 416-183-4 overall)

Assistant coaches: Dakotah Gamel and Catherine Ripka

District: 10-6A (Mesquite, Mesquite Horn, North Forney, Rockwall, Rockwall-Heath, Royse City)

2023 record: 22-11-1

Returning varsity players: Mallory Kniffen, Sr, C/3B … Kylee Tapia, Sr., P/SS/OF … Reese Neely, Sr., 3B/1B … Alayla Underwood, Sr., OF … Haylee Hulsey, SR., 1B/DP … Adaleigh Arivett, Sr., OF … Sara Eckert, Jr., P (Out for season)

Notable newcomers: Hadison Maxey, Fr., UTIL … ReNaa Hicks, Fr., UTIL … Aubrie Kirk, Jr., P

LONGVIEW

Mascot: Lady Lobos

Coach: Trevor Murphy

2023 record: 19-6-2

District: 15-5A (Hallsville, Marshall, Mount Pleasant, Texas High, Tyler, Pine Tree, Whitehouse)

Key returning players: Betsy Martinez … Paris Simpson … Jadasia Mims … Tomia Dessesaure

Looks good: “We have a great group of young, talented players that love to represent this program and play the game of softball.” – Murphy

Needs work: “Experience. We need a lot of game experience. We are young, which is not a bad thing, but we need to see as much live game experience as we can.” – Murphy

Did you know: Murphy has a career coaching record of 48-29-3

PINE TREE

Mascot: Lady Pirates

Coach: Luther Kirkpatrick

District: 15-5A (Longview, Hallsville, Marshall, Mount Pleasant, Texas High, Tyler, Whitehouse)

Key returning players: Gabby Thomas … Nia Woodson … Taylor Burkhart … E.K. Holder … Laney Schroeder … Ma’Kayla Rougley

Newcomers to watch: Rhi Black … Ma’Kya Stewart … Lakin Elliott … Jasmine Byrd

Looks good: “Team chemistry is outstanding, and the girls want to continue to build the culture of our softball team.” – Kirkpatrick

Needs work: “Key positions need to be filled after losing outstanding seniors. Leadership is still a work in progress..” – Kirkpatrick

Did you know: Three coaches on the PT staff have head coaching experience … Pine Tree’s field will have artificial turf for the 2025 season … Kirkpatrick has a career coaching record of 94-71-2

HALLSVILLE

Mascot: Ladycats

Coach: Kayla Whatley

2023 record: 17-14-2

District: 15-5A (Longview, Pine Tree, Marshall, Mount Pleasant, Texas High, Tyler, Whitehouse)

Key returning players: Hope Miles … Lindsey Dubberly … Maci Shirley … Sara Houston … Addison Dollahite

Looks good: “We have returning pitching and look for great things from all returning players and the new ones we added.” – Whatley

Needs work: “Working on a few spots on the field getting used to each other and the flow of the game.” – Whatley

Did you know: Whatley has a career coaching record of 157-64-6 … Miles, Dubberly and Shirley were all first team all-district players a year ago

MOUNT PLEASANT

Mascot: Lady Tigers

Coach: Jeremy Tarrant

2023 record: 15-20

District: 15-5A (Longview, Pine Tree, Hallsville, Marshall, Texas High, Tyler, Whitehouse)

Key returning players: Conlee Zachry … Ella Cross … Jordan Andrade … Morgan Hill … Amariya Miller … Casey Jones … Kaylee Silman … Lakyn Fortenberry … Kelsey Howard

Newcomers to watch: Bianca Garcia … Azlyn Fluellen … Kaylin Brannon

Looks good: “Senior led. Every returning player started and played a major role last season. We are deep at several positions.” – Tarrant

Needs work: “We need to continue to grow as a team both mentally and physically. We need to gel as a group and find the best lineup both offensively and defensively.” – Tarant

Did you know: Cross (Yale), Andrade (Kilgore), Hill (NTCC) and Jones (NTCC) have all signed to play at the college level … Tarrant has a career coaching record of 352-212-6 and a 235-161-4 mark in 13 seasons at Mount Pleasant

WHITEHOUSE LADYCATS

Head coach: Kaegan Jimenez (3rd year at Whitehouse, 44-25)

Assistant coaches: Travis Granberry and Stacey Hendrix

District: 15-5A (Hallsville, Longview, Pine Tree, Marshall, Mount Pleasant, Texas High, Tyler)

2023 record: 26-9

Returning varsity players: Grace Ann McDonald, Sr., P/IF (.414 batting; .949 fielding; 119.2 IP) … Aubry O’Bryant, Sr., IF/C (.298 batting; .996 fielding, caught 198 innings) … Cami Laney, Sr., OF (.355 batting; .974 fielding) … Elli Green, Sr., IF/P (.225 batting; .769 fielding; 71.1 IP) … Sierra Channel, Sr., IF (.308 batting; .815 fielding) … Kate Jones, Sr., UTIL (.477 batting; .938 fielding) … Kyndal Morris, Jr., IF (.309 batting; .833 fielding) … Larkin Jones, Jr., OF (.250 batting; .909 fielding) … Laney Crawford, Jr., OF (.178 batting; .792 fielding) … Paige Goodell, Jr., UTIL (.395 batting; .833 fielding)

Notable newcomers: Analee Becerra, Fr., UTIL … Riley Ohlsen, Fr., UTIL … Taylor Morris, Fr., IF

Additional comments: “We, as a staff and team, are super excited for this upcoming year. Getting all these girls as freshmen and sophomores and having the privilege of witnessing/being a part of their growth on and off the field has been a blessing. We have a lot of returners that are so gifted and as a staff, that is a great problem to have. We are hoping to be able to hold on to the last ride with these six seniors as long as possible and truly ‘be where our feet are” every day at practice and games.” — Jimenez

PITTSBURG

Mascot: Lady Pirates

Coach: Madison Sansom

District: 15-4A (Liberty-Eylau, North Lamar, Paris, Pleasant Grove, Sulphur Springs)

Key returning players: Alisa Rivera … Audrina Landin … Bayli Oglesby … Emie Castanada … Kylin Hutson … Landri Moore … Tatum Reynolds

Looks good: “We are returning seven of our nine starters from last season, so I think these girls will have good chemistry going into the season.” Sansom

Needs work: “We just need to work on our approaches at the plate and getting as many plate appearances as possible to get comfortable.” – Sansom

Did you know: Landin was a first team all-district pitcher last season

BROWNSBORO BEARETTES

Head coach: Rebecca McGough (1st year at Brownsboro)

Assistant coaches: Alex Essary and Karee Parker

District: 16-4A (Athens, Chapel Hill, Lindale, Van)

2023 record: 14-15-2

Returning varsity players: Lexi Williams, Sr., C (.111 batting, .348 OPS) … Andrea Bennett, Sr., OF (.333 batting, 1.067 OPS, 3 RBIs) … Reagan Smith, Sr., OF (.158 batting, 4 RBIs) … Megan Lee, Sr., IF … Maddie Hood, Jr., OF (.278 batting, 4 RBIs) … Cheyenne Cowart, Jr., P (46.1 IP, 5-3, 3.92 ERA) … Emma Cutright, Soph., IF (.158 batting, 4 RBIs) … Aubree McKinney, Soph., UTIL

Notable newcomers: Abbee Parker, Soph., P … Summer Nguyen, Fr., catcher … Arabella Lowrance, Fr., IF … Karli Chastant, Fr., OF

Additional comments: “We are going to be a young team this year, but I really see something special in this group of kids. Their chemistry on the field is natural, and they come to practice each day ready to work and get better. I am excited to see how we handle challenges and successes throughout the season.” — McGough

CHAPEL HILL LADY BULLDOGS

Head coach: Cheyenne Bouis (2nd year at Chapel Hill, 0-19)

Assistant coaches: Ashley McQueen and Paiton Mitchell)

District: 16-4A (Athens, Brownsboro, Lindale, Van)

2023 record: 0-19

Returning varsity players: Tierra Borel, Sr., C/OF … Mersaydez Lewis, Sr., SS/OF … Danielle Beets, Sr., DP/3B … Addison Rains, Jr., P/2B … Aaliyah Shabaan, Jr., 1B/3B … Alexis Landfair, Jr., OF/SS … Jenna Clements, Jr., 3B … Kaytlin Reyes, Soph., OF … Keslee Gandy, Soph., 1B/DP

Notable newcomers: Samantha Rivera, Jr., C/2B/3B … Jenna Borel, Fr., P/2B

Additional comments: “We are looking forward to this season. Our girls have put in a lot of work during the offseason and are extremely focused and energized to start our season.” — Bouis

VAN LADY VANDALS

Head coach: Baleigh Briggs (2nd year at Van, 20-15-2)

Assistant coaches: Bayli Simon and Craig Ham

District: 16-4A (Athens, Brownsboro, Lindale, Chapel Hill)

2023 record: 20-15-2

Returning varsity players: Ava Hopson, Sr., OF … Madeline Medcalf, Sr., OF/1B … Jailey Potter, Soph., P/2B … Maylan Hale, Soph., C/SS … Mahayla McKinney, Soph., 3B/P … Averi Crouch, Soph., SS/OF … Emerson Swoape, Soph., 2B/OF … Tatum Horton, Soph., P/1B

Additional comments: “We are very excited about this upcoming season. We cannot wait to watch our hard-working group of talented returners continue to grow this season. With the addition of new key players, we should continue to be quite competitive this year.” — Briggs

SPRING HILL

Mascot: Lady Panthers

Coach: Donald Gray

2023 record: 29-11-1

District: 17-4A (Carthage, Center, Gilmer, Henderson, Kilgore)

Key returning players: Kyndall Witt … Jovi Spurlock … Khloe Saxon … Mattye Moore … Josie Gray

Newcomers to watch: Makayla Navaro … Haley Blake … Sophie Robinett

Looks good: “We have six returning starters I feel have matured over the last year at the plate, and I believe we are going to hit the ball very well this year and play good defense.” – Gray

Needs work: “Our pitching will need some work in the preseason. We will have some young, talented players joining Mattye Moore in the outfield this year. They just need more reps together.” – Gray

Did you know: Witt was a first team All-State and All-East Texas second baseman last season

KILGORE

Mascot: Lady Bulldogs

Coach: Lacey Middlebrooks

District: 17-4A (Spring Hill, Gilmer, Center, Henderson, Carthage)

Key returning players: Eva Ray … Jae’la Williams … Karsyn Stover … Aniyah Polk

Newcomers to watch: Addison Murphy

Looks good: “Energy and enthusiasm to compete.” – Middlebrooks

Needs work: “Trusting the process and maintaining our confidence through failure and/or adversity.” – Middlebrooks

Did you know: Middlebrooks is in her first season as Kilgore’s head coach

CARTHAGE

Mascot: Lady Bulldogs

Coach: Rob McFall

2023 record: 21-12-1

District: 17-4A (Spring Hill, Center, Gilmer, Henderson, Kilgore)

Key returning players: Mallory Tutt … Anna Grace Bagley … Jiyia Williams … Addi Kneipp … Aubrey Leach … Kiley Knighton … JaKayla Roquemore

Newcomers to watch: Jaleah Williams … Reegan Robinson … Mya Nelson … Addison Garcia

Looks good: “Hitting and team chemistry.” – McFall

Needs work: “We are very young and need as much playing time at the high school level as possible.” – McFall

Did you know: Carthage will be playing on a new softball turf facility on campus this season … McFall has a career coaching record of 469-359-5 and a 132-64-2 mark at Carthage

HENDERSON

Mascot: Lady Lions

Coach: John White

District: 17-4A (Spring Hill, Carthage, Center, Gilmer, Kilgore)

Key returning players: Chloe Ellis … Jacie Boothe … Addy Davis … Taniyah Vanzandt … Kristina Jackson … McKenna Moon

Newcomers to watch: Anna Cheek

Looks good: “Offensively, we are in a good place to start the season. New concepts, strategies and play calling have been well-received and implemented by the team. They have taken an unselfish approach at the plate and have shown a good understanding of what we are trying to achieve as a unit.” – White

Needs work: “Communication and defensive solidarity will be a work in progress. This only comes with time and knowing your teammates’ tendencies.” – White

Did you know: Henderson’s softball stadium is named for former Henderson athlete Jamie Hand, who was killed in the Nov. 18, 1999 bonfire collapse at Texas A&M University. Henderson will host the first Jamie Hand Invitational Tournament this season

GILMER

Mascot: Lady Buckeyes

Coach: Keirsten Seahorn

2023 record: 22-12

District: 17-4A (Kilgore, Spring Hill, Center, Henderson, Carthage)

Key returning players: Alexis Kemp … Alex Werbeck … Kara Williams … Brie Jones … Jayna Rucker

Newcomers to watch: Kennedy Jordan … Lilly Dorsett

Looks good: “We are an extremely young team this season, and we see that as a great thing for us. Our pitching is looking good, as well as our hitting.” – Seahorn

Needs work: “We are young, so we will need to work on those tough situations and knowing how to handle them while staying calm and under control.” – Seahorn

Did you know: Kemp was the district’s defensive Player of the Year and Werbeck was the league’s Catcher of the Year in 2023 … Gilmer’s roster will include no seniors this season

BULLARD LADY PANTHERS

Head coach: Julie Murry (5th season at Bullard, 123-18; 265-78 overall)

Assistant coaches: Danielle Guerra and Destinee Dixon

District: 18-4A (Hudson, Jacksonville, Madisonville, Palestine, Rusk)

2023 record: 38-5

Returning varsity players: Anistyn Foster, Sr., P (40.1 IP, 2.43 ERA, 47 Ks) … Matti Nix, Sr., 1B (.282 batting, 1 HR, 25 RBIs) … Kirstin Malone, Soph., SS (.382 batting, 5 HR, 29 RBIs) … Kamyn Honzell, Jr., 3B (.289 batting, 20 RBIs) … Brooklyn Brannen, Soph., P/OF (78 IP, 1.61 ERA, 111 Ks) … Baylie Walker, Jr., C (.250 batting, 2 HR, 10 RBI) … Zaylee Zahirniak, Jr., 2B (4 RBIs) … Dakota Payne, Jr., OF (.235 batting, 14 RBI)

Notable newcomers: Emery Baker, Soph., UTIL … Kenzie Lakata, Soph., P … Denim Boles, Soph., 3B/OF … Kenzi Roberts, Soph., OF

Additional comments: “We are very excited about this year’s team. They have shown themselves to be a hard-working group of young ladies with a story to tell. We are striving to elevate our tradition of excellence, one day at a time and one game at time.” — Murry

JACKSONVILLE MAIDENS

Head coach: Randall Covey (1st year at Jacksonville)

Assistant coaches: Kenzee Rawlinson and Tristian Chancey

District: 18-4A (Bullard, Hudson, Madisonville, Palestine, Rusk)

2023 record: 11-13-1

Returning varsity players: Jasmine Gallegos, Sr., SS/P (.552 batting, 9 HR, 29 RBIs; 4-5, 4.59 ERA, 84 Ks, 82.1 IP) … Chesni Speaker, Sr., C/OF (.178 batting, 5 2B, 2 RBIs) … Abbigail Conaway, Sr., OF (.125 batting) … Hannah Gonzales, Soph., SS/P (.389 batting, 10 2B, 15 RBIs; 2-2, 4.46 ERA, 83 Ks, 53.1 IP)

Notable newcomers: Kendi Canady, Fr., 1B … Mahala Sotelo, Fr., 2B/OF … Ryan Ramirez, Fr., C/OF

Additional comments: “It’s a great group of young ladies that work hard on and off the field. It will be an exciting year for Jacksonville Softball. It’s a young team that is getting better every day.” — Covey

RUSK LADY EAGLES

Head coach: Michael Williams (5th year at Rusk, 71-52-3)

Assistant coaches: Cassi Hart and Will Kollet

District: 18-4A (Bullard, Hudson, Jacksonville, Madisonville, Palestine)

2023 record: 21-15

Returning varsity players: Sarah Boudreaux, Sr., SS (.568 batting, 1.424 OPS, 20 2B, 2 HR, 55 runs) … Kennzie Norton, Sr., C (.385 batting, 1.266 OPS, 5 3B, 7 HR, 45 RBIs) … Aubrey Hassell, Soph., 3B (.426 batting, 1.318 OPS, 8 HR, 50 RBIs) … Maddie Downs, Sr., 1B/P … Courtney Chandler, Sr., OF (.300 avg., 30 RBIs) … Arabella Heredia, Sr., UTIL (.286 batting, 22 RBIs) … Joci Hill, Sr., OF … Riley Collins, Soph., P/2B (.255 batting) … Melanie Duke, Soph., UTIL (.267 batting)

Notable newcomers: Kenzie Chandler, Soph., OF … Jaycee Cummins, Soph., OF … Piper Richardson, Soph., UTIL

Additional comments: “We are blessed to be returning a lot of experience this year. It is a great group that I’ve been able to coach since their freshman year. These girls are a resilient group that are going to do the little things right and find a way to win the game. They have set high goals for themselves and push each other every day to reach those goals.” — Williams

GRAND SALINE LADY INDIANS

Head coach: Marc Chitty (6th year at Grand Saline, 99-44-1; 150-66-1 overall)

Assistant coaches: Maranda Westbrook and Mike Laughlin

District: 12-3A (Commerce, Edgewood, Rains, Lone Oak, Paris Chisum, Pattonville Prairiland)

2023 record: 24-14

Returning varsity players: Hannah Aaron, Sr., P (20-11, 2.91 ERA, 157 Ks) … Gracie Jo Currey, Soph., 1B (.464 batting, .524 OBP, 32 RBIs) … Alissa Fugate, Jr., SS (.400 batting; .467 OBP, 26 RBIs) … Cloie Jacobs, Sr., OF (.304 batting, .394 OBP, 19 RBIs) … Aubree Kindle, Jr., C … Kolbi Phillips, Soph., 2B … Drew Hathcock, Sr., IF

Notable newcomers: Lessa Autry, Soph., OF … Kylie Adair, Soph., OF … Abbigail Sustaita, Soph., IF … Jamie Kate Castleberry, Jr., IF

Additional comments: “This team has been working so hard and we are looking forward to watching them compete in a very competitive preseason to prepare them for District 12-3A, which I believe is one of the toughest softball districts in the state. It should be fun to watch.” — Chitty

RAINS LADYCATS

Head coach: Scott Delozier (7th year at Rains, 173-25; 368-104 overall)

Assistant coaches: Stephen Clayton and Autumn Tanton

District: 12-3A (Commerce, Edgewood, Grand Saline, Lone Oak, Paris Chisum, Pattonville Prairiland)

2023 record: 33-8

Returning varsity players: Lynzee Hague, Sr., SS (.485 batting, 39 SB) … Izzy Stroman, Jr., OF … Cambree Oakes, Sr., P (33-8, 364 Ks, 1.52 ERA) … Presley Kilgore, Soph., 3B (.465 batting) … Anna Tanton, Sr., OF … Hava Hyatt, Soph., 2B … Emma Knight, Jr., C (.475 batting) … Addi Fuller, Jr., 1B

Notable newcomers: Lauren Foster, Sr., OF (Allen transfer); Alexus Wilkins, Jr., OF/P (Grand Saline transfer) … Peyton Bryant, Fr., P/IF (Sulphur Springs transfer)

Additional comments: “Some key move-ins should help an already experienced team try to head back to state for the fifth time in six year, excluding COVID year (that we finished 18-1 and had eight seniors on a returning state championship team).” — Delozier

HARMONY

Mascot: Lady Eagles

Coach: Sheri Seahorn

2023 record: 6-17

District: 13-3A (MPCH, Mineola, Mount Vernon, Quitman, Winnsboro, Winona)

Key returning players: Kristyn Spence … Maecy Toland … Gabby Hector … Hannah Martin … Olivia DeBrue … Kara School … Emma Blackstone

Newcomers to watch: Noel Edge … Chloe Hector … Evie Helpenstill

Looks good: “Team camaraderie. This group has the ability to hold each other accountable and expect the best from each other.” – Seahorn

Needs work: “Offense and manufacturing runs.” – Seahorn

Did you know: Seahorn taught assistant coach Adam Hogue, and Hogue’s daughter is on this year’s team

MINEOLA LADY JACKETS

Head coach: Taelor Cheshier (5th year at Mineola, 20-45)

Assistant coaches: Kiley Banks and Jason Goodson

District: 13-3A (Harmony, Mount Pleasant Chapel Hill, Mount Vernon, Quitman, Winnsboro, Winona)

2023 record: 11-15

Returning varsity players: Caroline Castleberry, Soph., OF (.380 batting, 25 runs, 6 RBIs, 16 SB) … Jorja Yung, Soph., 2B (.222 batting, 20 runs, 8 RBIs, 3 SB) … Mycah Morman, Jr., P/1B (2-2, 43 IP, 19 Ks) … Gracie Lindley, Jr., OF … Jadelyn Marshall, Soph., P/OF (.403 batting, 23 runs, 18 RBIs; 9-4, 94 IP, 134 Ks) … Bailey McQuilliams, Soph., 1B … Krissie Barker, Jr., OF … Lucy Goodson, Soph., C/UTIL … Madison Short, Soph., 3B (.324 batting) … Jaycee Smith, Sr., C (.347 batting, 10 runs, 28 RBIs)

Notable newcomers: Emily Hodges, Jr., UTIL … Mahayla McMahon, Soph., OF/UTIL … Kali Cheitzburg, Fr., IF/C … Kaitlyn MdcMahon, Fr., IF/C … Journie Wilson, Fr., IF/UTIL … Jayla Johnson, Fr., OF/3B/C

Additional comments: “We are very young with only two seniors this season and most are coming in with good travel ball experience and willing to work hard every day. We are excited for the season and looking forward to where it takes us.” — Cheshier

WHITE OAK

Mascot: Ladynecks

Coach: Nineveh Blankenship

2023 record: 27-8

District: 15-3A (Daingerfield, Gladewater, Hughes Springs, New Diana, Sabine)

Key returning players: Larkin Daniels … Addison McClanahan … Jaidyn Marshall … Emily Wallace … Tristyn Cox … Graycen Sipes … Andee Bridges

Newcomers to watch: Kara Kennedy … Grace Heairet … Kylie Caraway … Austyn Noll … Addy Young … Madi Baker … Cami Ferguson

Looks good: “Pitching. With the return of Larkin Daniels, we have one of the best pitchers in the state in 3A and we will have more depth behind her this year as well.” – Blankenship

Needs work: “The two key positions to fill this year are at catcher and third base. We have several candidates to fill these positions, so I will be excited to see who emerges. We need to improve our baserunning and overall offense as well.” – Blankenship

Did you know: Daniels, who recently signed with ETBU, has a 47-15 record and 696 strikeouts in three seasons at White Oak

NEW DIANA

Mascot: Lady Eagles

Coach: Hailee Oney

2023 record: 16-13

District: 15-3A (White Oak, Daingerfield, Gladewater, Hughes Springs, Sabine)

Key returning players: Taryn Reece … Chloe Green … Reagan Reece

Newcomers to watch: Addi Valle

Looks good: “We are entering the season with our nine starters from last year. Returning to the 2024 season with experience, confidence and tremendous teamwork will be a game changer for us.” – Oney

Did you know: Reece was the district’s Defensive MVP and Green was the league’s Newcomer of the Year last season

SABINE

Mascot: Lady Cardinals

Coach: Alyssa Hammontree

District: 15-3A (White Oak, Hughes Springs, New Diana, Gladewater, Daingerfield)

Key returning players: Renatta Galvan … Amelia Miller … Addy Carney … Bailey Pierce … Karsyn Watson … Abbie Abercrombie … Kattlin Akers … Madison Pierce

Newcomers to watch: Breanna Hill

Looks good: “We have a lot of returners who are eager to play, which is an asset for this team. We also have some freshmen who are ready to learn and compete.” – Hammontree

Needs work: “I want to challenge my girls this year to see if they can jump to a higher level of softball. The pitching and defense are there. We just need to eliminate errors in crucial innings and finish the game. We came up short last year, and I think we still have a lot left in the tank going into this season.” – Hammontree

Did you know: Miller pitched in 21 games last season and compiled a 2.94 earned run average

HUGHES SPRINGS

Mascot: Lady Mustangs

Coach: Tisha Thompson

2023 record: 19-11

District: 15-3A (White Oak, Gladewater, New Diana, Sabine, Daingerfield)

Key returning players: Claira Robinson … Alyssa Baxter … Annie Stonesifer … Hannah Abernathy … Maggie Pate … Madilyn Derrick … Sadie Golden

Newcomers to watch: Fantasi Smith … Kylee Duck …A.J. Perry … Addysyn Billings … Tessa Dannelly

Looks good: “We’re excited about adding a fourth pitcher to the staff this year and look forward to that being a strength. The girls are working hard to improve.” – Thompson

Needs work: “We will have a lot of new faces on the field and upperclassmen with a lot of experience to lead them. We just have to find consistency in the level of our play this year.” – Thompson

Did you know: Thompson has a career coaching record of 341-100-4 … Baxter (7-2), Abernathy (4-3) and Pate (8-6) combined for all 19 of the team’s pitching wins last season

DAINGERFIELD

Mascot: Lady Tigers

Coach: Shawn Freeman

District: 15-3A (New Diana, Sabine, Hughes Springs, Gladewater, White Oak)

Key returning players: Chrishlyn Boyd … Destiny Gholston … Jaycee Satterfield … Makylie Harrison … Kaziah Lee

Newcomers to watch: Kaidence Mason … Khloe Stroman … Rachael Walker … Jaclyn Wallace

Looks good: “Defensively, the girls are looking good.” – Freeman

Needs work: “We need to get experience seeing various pitchers. We made lots of improvements last season and look forward to more this year.” – Freeman

TATUM

Mascot: Lady Eagles

Coach: Jennifer Cook

2023 record: 8-22

District: 16-3A (Arp, Elysian Fields, Jefferson, West Rusk, Troup, Waskom)

Key returning players: Camryn Milam … Beka Stockton … Noa Cart … Audrea Bradley … Mia Tovar

Newcomers to watch: Alex Brown

Looks good: “Our program has bigger numbers this season. The larger roster, combined with the leadership of some key returning players, will contribute to great things this year.” – Cook

Needs work: “We will be working a lot of base running techniques and increasing that part of the game IQ during our preseason schedule.” – Cook

Did you know: Stockton is a three-time first team all-district pitcher, and Milam, Bradley and Tovar all earned first team all-district honors last season

TROUP LADY TIGERS

Head coach: Sam Weeks (15th year at Troup, 269-144-5)

Assistant coaches: Ammie Wells and Taylor Dobbs

District: 16-3A (Arp, Elysian Fields, Jefferson, Tatum, West Rusk, Waskom)

2023 record: 23-11-1

Returning varsity players: London Driggers, Soph., OF … Cadence Ellis, Soph., IF … Taylor Gillispie, Jr., P/IF … MaKayla Spencer, Jr., IF/C … Bailey Blanton, Sr., C/IF … Sydnie Dickey, Sr., P/OF … Hannah Cearley, Soph., UTIL

Notable newcomers: Carli Hays, Fr., P … Shiloh Sluder, IF

Additional comments: “We have an incredibly young team, but have some great depth and many options to run with at multiple positions. I am super excited to see what all we can accomplish with this group of young ladies.” — Weeks

WEST RUSK LADY RAIDERS

Head coach: Bill Morton (10th year at West Rusk, 167-61)

Assistant coaches: Derek Lyon and Baleigh Smith

District: 16-3A (Arp, Elysian Fields, Jefferson, Tatum, Troup, Waskom)

2023 record: 24-2

Returning varsity players: Jaimie Jose … Kyrsten Price … Carlie Buckner … Aylin Rocha … Jaden Vick … Dekaila Landon … Lakendra Murphy … Summer Lejeune … Dustin Redden

Notable newcomers: Paisley Smith … Kinlee Reasoner … Ireland Hunt

Additional comments: “We lost several key players last season, but we have brought in a talented group to take their place. Kyrsten, Jaimie and Carlie will be the leaders on this year’s team, and we expect to see good things from these young ladies.” — Morton

ELKHART LADY ELKS

Head coach: Biff Knight (1st year at Elkhart)

Assistant coaches: Danielle Wady and Holden Ray

District: 20-3A (Buffalo, Fairfield, Franklin, Groesbeck, Mexia, Palestine Westwood, Teague)

2023 record: 7-20

Returning varsity players: London Holland, Jr. … Hadley Waldon, Jr. … Callie Boyd, Soph. … Addison Knight, Soph. … Ella Lively, Soph. … Kay Hearing, Jr. … Gabby Gatica, Jr.

Notable newcomers: Shelby Eberts, Sr. … Riley Lohmeyer, Fr. … Cyndi Boyd, Fr. … Maria Lara, Fr.

Additional comments: “We have a young but experienced team who is set to take on the season. The girls have put in a lot of work since last year and are poised to compete at a high level this year. With additions to the roster by a very talented freshman group, we look forward to a great season. I am lucky to be a part of this team as their coach. Most of these girls I was able to have coached them for the past four years with travel ball, so I was able to come in with a strong relationship with the team. I look forward to a great season.” — Knight

HARLETON

Mascot: Lady Wildcats

Coach: Cristian Moreno

2023 record: 14-9

District: 18-2A (Harts Bluff, Linden-Kildare, Maud, McLeod, James Bowie, Avery, Bloomburg)

Key returning players: Maddi King … Zoey Ring … Hannah Henigan … Annabelle Green … Hannah Wright … Addison Morris … Taylor Airington

Newcomers to watch: Makenzi DeLoe … Leighton McWhorter … Kayela Nealy … Kaitlyn Watson

Looks good: “With us having a younger roster, I have relied heavily on leadership from our upperclassmen. I feel extremely confident that our culture, and the leadership from others, will help us progress this season and prepare others to lead in the future.” – Moreno

Needs work: “There is always room for improvement, but we need to continue to learn from our mistakes and learn to make adjustments on the go.” – Moreno

Did you know: This is Moreno’s first season as head coach at Harleton

LINDEN-KILDARE

Mascot: Lady Tigers

Coach: Marie Stone

2023 record: 18-9

District: 18-2A (Harleton, Hart’s Bluff, Maud, McLeod, James Bowie, Avery, Bloomburg)

Key returning players: Kaycee Neville … Hannah Wall … Callie Johnson … Allie Watson … Lynlee LeJeune

Looks good: “Communication and defense.” – Stone

Needs work: “Being outside for full team practice and consistently hitting the ball hard.” – Stone

Did you know: This is the 30th season of Linden-Kildare’s softball program … Neville was a first-team all-district performer last season, hitting .481 with seven home runs, 43 RBI and 43 runs scored

HAWKINS LADY HAWKS

Head coach: Jennifer Hawkins (3rd year at Hawkins, 44-12-1; 81-38 overall)

Assistant coaches: Terri Boyd and Casey Busby

District: 19-2A (Big Sandy, Union Grove, New Summerfield, Ore City, Overton, Carlisle, Union Hill)

2023 record: 23-4

Returning varsity players: Kalyn Ellison, Jr., P (2.10 ERA, 23Ks, 20 IP) … Ryli Williams, Sr., C (.416 batting, 36 RBIs) … Taetum Smith, Jr., IF (.530 batting, 44 hits, 41 SB) … Londyn Wilson, Jr., 3B (.352 batting, 25 hits, 2 HR)

Additional comments: “We have key positional players returning that will anchor our team this year and a very athletic squad returning. Upperclassmen have put in the hard work in the offseason to be ready to step in and lead this year. We look to continue to build success with the culture that surrounds Lady Hawk Athletics.” — Hawkins

NEW SUMMERFIELD LADY HORNETS

Head coach: Aaron Warren (6th year at New Summerfield, 38-68)

Assistant coaches: Katie Bell

District: 19-2A (Big Sandy, Union Grove, Hawkins, Ore City, Overton, Carlisle, Union Hill)

2023 record: 15-11

Returning varsity players: Citlaly Juarez, Sr., UTIL … Aubree Warren, Jr., P … Amy Aguilar, Jr., C … Lailey Villanueva, Jr., OF … Kelly Espinosa, Jr., 1B … Ashley Villanueva, Soph., UTIL … Heidi Hernandez, Soph., UTIL … Natalin Hernandez, Soph., 3B

Notable newcomers: Kimberly Guerrero, Fr., UTIL … Emely Garcia, Fr., UTIL

Additional comments: “Coming off the first winning season in school history, the next step is fighting for a playoff spot. All-district pitcher, Aubree Warren, will have to carry the load in the circle. We are looking strong up the middle with returning all-district players Citlaly Juarez and Lailey Villanueva. Amy Aguilar has been working hard in the offseason to make the move from middle infield to behind the plate. Kelly Espinosa provides experience and a big bat returning at first base. We need to clean up the mistakes and our experience level to continue to grow. The future is looking bright with a young core up and coming.” — Warren

OVERTON

Mascot: Mustangs

Coach: Marty Mayfield

2023 record: 17-16

District: 19-2A (Union Grove, Union Hill, Hawkins, New Summerfield, Big Sandy, Carlisle)

Key returning players: Kayla Nobles … Halle Mayfield … Lila Gurley … Chelsea Jordan … Sara Emery … Kyuana Brown … Anna Perkins

Newcomers to watch: Kelsey Vaught … Skyler Colvin … Mason Fenter … Siann Levoy … Kasha Williams … Avery Smith (senior, returning from injury)

Looks good: “We look good on defense so far. We have some good leadership back, and they know the expectations.” – Mayfield

Needs work: “We have to improve in the circle and at the plate. We lost some key seniors, especially pitcher Brylie Smith who carried us last year. We’re depending on some of the ladies working on pitching to step up and fill that role.” – Mayfield

Did you know: Mayfield has a 65-42 career coaching record

ORE CITY

Mascot: Lady Rebels

Coach: Rick Wilson

2023 record: 5-22

District: 19-2A (Union Grove, Union Hill, Hawkins, New Summerfield, Overton, Big Sandy, Carlisle)

Key returning players: Kinsey Watkins … Chloe Scott … Brooke Byrd … Keylee Richardson … Gali Abrego … Jordan Johnson … Mazye Hawkins … Kayla Peckham … J’lynn Watkins … Falynn Love

Newcomers to watch: Abigail Glaser

Looks good: “The coaching staff has been extremely impressed with the work our pitchers put in over the offseason.” Wilson

Needs work: “Offense. We need to continue to grow at the plate. Run support will be paramount for our much-improved pitching staff.” – Wilson

Did you know: Assistant coach Morgan Clawson played select softball for coach Wilson and is a former Ore City standout pitcher.

LAPOYNOR LADY FLYERS

Head coach: Bryan Lovett (1st year at LaPoynor; 58-29-2 overall)

Assistant coach: Chris Hutchins

District: 20-2A (Cayuga, Frankston, Kerens, Martin’s Mill, Cross Roads, Neches, Trinidad)

2023 record: 0-12

Returning varsity players: Mary Fico, Jr., 2B … Bre Howard, Jr., C/P … Kendall Garcia, Jr., 3B/SS … Adrianna Estra, Jr., OF/P … Hadley Rhoades, Soph., 1B/2B … Emma Crye, Soph., 3B/OF … Izzy Young, Soph., SS/OF … Robby Gandy, Soph., CF

Notable newcomers: Taylor Lovett, Jr., P/UTIL

Additional comments: “We are an extremely young team this year with some experience in key positions. The kids are hungry with a great work ethic and lots of energy. Overall, just a great bunch of kids that we get to work with and watch develop.” — Lovett

MARTIN’S MILL LADY MUSTANGS

Head coach: Heather Salazar (2nd year at Martin’s Mill)

Assistant coaches: Kendell Redd

District: 20-2A (Cayuga, Frankston, Kerens, LaPoynor, Cross Roads, Neches, Trinidad)

2023 record: 3-11

Returning varsity players: Kate Lindsey, Sr., SS (.739 batting, .760 OBP, 0 Ks; .885 fielding) … Reese Hattaway, Jr. (.209 batting, .375 OBP) … Makayla McLemore, Jr. … Braleigh Whitus, Jr.. OF/2B/SS (.246 batting, .342 OBP; .967 fielding) … Ruthie Mein, Jr. (.361 batting, .425 OBP; .862 fielding)

Notable newcomers: Brilen Butcher, Fr., UTIL … McKenna Wise, Fr., UTIL

BECKVILLE

Mascot: Ladycats

Coach: Ronny Grandgeorge

2023 record: 22-16

District: 22-2A (Garrison, Joaquin, Mount Enterprise, Shelbyville, Timpson, Martinsville)

Key returning players: Bethany Grandgeorge … Lexi Barr … Bailey Quinn … Emily Grandgeorge … Kaitlyn Mauritzen

Newcomers to watch: Gracey Struwe

Looks good: “After exiting the playoffs in the third round the last two years, the team has committed to putting in the necessary work to make a deeper postseason run. They are focused on improving the areas that have been weaknesses in the past.” – Grandgeorge

Needs work: “Communication is going to be the key as well as learning to be more aggressive on the bases when opportunities present themselves.” – Grandgeorge

Did you know: Bethany Grandgeorge was the district’s MVP and Quinn was the league’s Offensive MVP last season … Barr recently signed to play softball at Kilgore College

BROOK HILL LADY GUARD

Head coach: Anthony Springer (13th year at Brook Hill)

Assistant coaches: Suzanne Braly and Jereme Hubbard

District: TAPPS Division III District 2 (All Saints, Dallas Christian, McKinney Christian, Prince of Peace)

2023 record: 22-4

Returning varsity players: Gracie Dawson, Sr., 1B … Landrey McNeel, Sr., OF/1B … Caley Fitzgerald, Sr., OF/1B … Caley Fitzgerald, Sr., OF … Willow Kutach, Sr., OF … Karmen Miller, Jr. P … Brenna Hill, Jr., OF … Mylee Booth, Soph., 2B … McKenna Lunceford, Soph., OF … Blaire Brister, Soph., C … Menah Harley, Soph., SS … Julianna Mize, Soph., OF … Savannah Onley, Soph., OF

Notable newcomers: Piper Moore, Fr., 3B/SS .. Maddison Mathaney, Fr., 1B/C

Additional comments: “Starting season with a couple of injuries, but I believe we have a team that can step up and fill in the gaps. Our eyes are set on making it to the final four.” — Springer

GRACE COMMUNITY LADY COUGARS

Head coach: Chris Arriola (3rd year at Grace)

Assistant coach: Mike Lee

District: TAPPS Division II District 2 (Frisco Legacy, Grapevine Faith, Coram Deo, Bishop Dunne)

2023 record: 18-10-1

Returning varsity players: Sadie Arriola … Malayna Cauley … Macie Mathis … Isabel Buchanan … Kennedy Tilley … Rylan Lafaitt

Notable newcomers: Kat Neal

Additional comments: “We have a great group of girls this year that show up daily and look to get better. Offensively, we are ahead of where we were this time last year but definitely not satisfied. We added some strength in the circle that will allow us to rotate the roster and be able to utilize everyone’s strengths the way we need. We are just patiently waiting for all the girls from other sports to make it back and the rain to stop so we can get to business.” — Arriola