As the Anadarko Lady Warriors gear up for the new softball season, the excitement and anticipation are high. Head coach Jordan Troxell is optimistic about the team’s potential, driven by the hard work and dedication shown by the players during the off-season. “We have set a team goal to finish in the top four in our district and also to win more games than we did last year,” Troxell said, outlining the team’s ambitions for the season.

The Lady Warriors have been putting in the effort to achieve these goals, focusing on strength and conditioning. “The girls have been working hard during the summer lifting weights and conditioning,” Troxell said, highlighting the commitment of the players to improve their physical fitness and overall performance on the field.

Leadership will play a crucial role in the team’s success, with senior Mariah Gooday expected to lead by example. “Mariah Gooday is going to be a senior this year. I will look at her to be the leader of the team. Gooday made all-district team last year and will look to build off of last year,” Troxell explained. Additionally, pitcher Nieley Franklin is set to be a key player, as Troxell noted, “Nieley Franklin will be the player that we count on being in the circle pitching for us every day.”

The team is also looking forward to contributions from younger players, including incoming freshmen Mylah Rucker and Aliyah Upton. “Mylah Rucker and Aliyah Upton will be incoming freshmen that will have to step up and help this team win games,” Troxell said.

Despite losing two starters from last year’s team, the Lady Warriors are ready to fill those gaps. “We only graduated two starters from last year’s team. But the players that we lost are going to be big shoes to fill,” Troxell acknowledged. Players like Lenaya Williams and Cookie White are expected to step into crucial roles as starting shortstop and catcher, respectively.

The district schedule promises to be challenging, demanding consistent performance from the team. “Our district schedule will be very tough for us this year. We will have to show up and play our best game if we want to finish in the top four,” Troxell mentioned. The rivalry game against Chickasha is particularly anticipated, adding an extra layer of excitement to the season.

As the season unfolds, coach Troxell is eager to witness the growth and development of the team. “As a coach, I love seeing individuals and the team work hard and get better every day. Just seeing where we start the season and how we develop as a team throughout the year really excites me,” Troxell said, looking forward to a promising season ahead for the Anadarko Lady Warriors.