By Michael Cignoli (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
Coming off one of the most impressive seasons in program history, the Kickapoo softball team is ready for another one.
Coach Jason Howser’s team returns six starters from the group that went 30-7 and brought home the school’s first district championship since the 2020 team finished third in the state.
“Being through the experience of last fall will help all our returning players,” Howser said. “Undefeated in the COC, winning the Springfield Invitational and winning the district title is great experience for our returning girls and should help with their experience this fall.”
While the team graduated seven seniors, the most notable departures are all-state pitcher Allison Scott, fellow four-year starter Taryn Hagardt and the ultra-athletic Mikayla Pilley. Their absences will create opportunities for the next group of Chiefs to continue the program’s rich tradition.
It’s nothing new for Kickapoo, which always finds a way to adapt.
“We have been very fortunate to have talented, hard-working players over the past 11 years,” Howser said. “Great pitchers, catchers, hitters and position players. Each core group of players had a common trait — they loved to compete.”
This year’s group is no different, as it returns seven players who earned spots on various postseason all-star teams.
Senior catcher Ellie Shevey leads the way, as the Missouri State commit is coming off an all-state campaign. Senior first baseman Kate Finley, fully recovered from shoulder surgery, and junior outfielder Maddie Akers earned spots on the all-region, all-district and all-conference teams.
Senior outfielder Claire Akins was an all-district and all-conference honoree, while senior first baseman Katie Vaughan and classmate Calie Kilgo were all-conference picks.
Kilgo will take over as the team’s primary pitcher after going 7-3 last fall.
“A+ competitor,” Howser said. “Attacks the zone.”
Despite the roster continuity, the lineup is far from finalized.
“We have several positions that are open for the taking this fall,” Howser said. “That should create in-house competition that should help our team.”
Senior utility player Aven Martin and junior outfielder Harper Helfrecht will look to secure larger roles on this year’s squad, and Howser mentioned Jayce Skyles, Bailee Burke, Sammy Jennerjohn, Sophia Lowry and Aishah Halterman as the newcomers who could compete for playing time.
Skyles, a freshman, will be the team’s No. 2 pitcher behind Kilgo.
“Her strengths will be her ability to throw strikes and compete when given the chance in the circle,” Howser said.
The Chiefs will host Ozark, McDonald County and Logan-Rogersville for an August 22 jamboree, then welcome Perry (Oklahoma) to open the regular season one week later.
“We are excited to watch this group create their own identity and write their own story,” Howser said.
