Patriots build on strengths for fourth season
The softball program at Northwest-Shoals Community College continues to grow as it enters its fourth season since being relaunched.
Head coach Angel Brown said the focus this year is building on the progress the program has made during its first few seasons back on the field. Brown said the team is working to carry forward the leadership and momentum established in previous years while also developing younger players stepping into larger roles.
“We had some great leaders last year,” Brown said. “Now we’ve got freshmen coming in and sophomores that are stepping into new roles and becoming leaders.”
Pitching is expected to remain a key strength for the team. Sophomore pitcher Jacey Moore, a Russellville native, returns after earning all-conference honors as a freshman. Brown said Moore played a major role on the mound last season and the team expects her to continue leading the pitching staff.
Several other players have also emerged as contributors both offensively and defensively.
McKenzie Hyche, who played high school softball in Lawrence County, has been a steady presence at first base and has also produced offensively. She is among the team’s leaders at the plate along with Aubrey Reid, a former Danville standout.
Another offensive contributor is Alona Davis of Rogers, who has been productive in the lineup.
Brown said the roster’s versatility has been a major asset. Many players can move between positions, allowing the coaching staff to adjust the lineup while continuing to develop younger athletes.
“At our level, if you hit, you play,” Brown said.
Behind the plate, freshman catcher Preslie Bunch has quickly made an impact. The Brooks graduate splits time with returning players but has already earned praise from the coaching staff for her leadership and defensive ability. Brown said Bunch’s low stance and strong receiving skills help pitchers work effectively.
Defensively, the infield has also been anchored by strong play from shortstop Candice Chambers. Brown said Chambers has made several difficult plays in the early season, demonstrating the defensive ability needed at the position.
While the team continues to work through a few injuries, Brown said the coaching staff is focused on balancing immediate success with long-term development. Freshmen are gradually being worked into the lineup to gain experience that will help the program in future seasons.
The steady improvement of the team reflects the overall growth of the program since it was restarted. Brown said she has been impressed by how quickly Northwest-Shoals has become competitive.
“Programs that begin from scratch often take years to establish themselves,” she said, but Northwest-Shoals has progressed rapidly thanks to strong support from the college and a deep pool of local softball talent.
Brown credited school leadership, including college President Jeff Goodwin and Athletics Director Taylor Franks, for providing the facilities and resources needed for the program to grow.
“The Shoals area has long been known for producing strong softball players,” Brown said. “The program gives those athletes another opportunity to continue their careers close to home.”
As the season continues, Brown said the team is still learning about itself and working to find the right combinations in the field.
“I’m just excited to see what we’re going to do,” she said.
