Following a successful 2024 campaign, the Danville Blue Devils, under the leadership of head coach Charlie Duncan, claimed the Knox Morrow Athletic Conference (KMAC) championship and finished as district runner-up. Despite these achievements, Duncan acknowledges that his team remains unsatisfied.
According to Duncan, with a strong group of returning players and a promising incoming class, he is confident that his squad is prepared to advance further in 2025. His coaching journey began on the football field but expanded to softball due to his daughters' influence. "The dedication and passion these girls bring to the game are exactly what I look for in athletes I want to lead," Duncan said.
This season, Duncan is eager to see how new players assume key roles and how offseason efforts translate into competition success. The Blue Devils possess a mix of veteran leadership and young talent, providing potential for building on last season's accomplishments.
Danville will be led by six seniors, marking the most experienced group since Duncan took over as head coach. Outfielders Addison Mickley and Abi Sapp return as key leaders, both having signed to play at Mount Vernon Nazarene next season. Alicia Humphrey and Maddy Payne will strengthen the left side of the infield while adding power to the lineup. Humphrey returns to pitching after recovering from an injury.
One significant transition for Danville will be at catcher, with Merista Brown stepping in for graduated Emily Weckesser. Brown's leadership and defensive skills are expected to be crucial behind the plate. Taylor Johnston will provide versatility across multiple positions.
Beyond the seniors, juniors Addy Bocock, Ruby Bartok, and Taylor Meade are set to play key roles. Bocock will split time between pitching and second base; Bartok brings a strong bat and defensive reliability at first base; Meade has impressed with her energy and work ethic.
Sophomore Kenzi Staats is anticipated to take on a larger role this season alongside a talented group of freshmen—Liz John, Avri Bocock, Riley Johnston, Star Hoar, and Aubri Clifton—who are ready to contribute within the program.
Duncan’s motivation for coaching stems from his deep ties to the Danville community. As a former player and graduate himself, he understands the passion surrounding Danville athletics. "I am where I am today because of this school and community," Duncan said. "Coaching athletes who are driven pushes me to be a better teacher."
Despite last season’s success, Duncan notes that his players remain driven by unfinished business following their loss in Pickerington last year. "They know they lost some great seniors," he said. "But they’re locked in... Being district runner-up isn’t on their goal sheet—finishing the job is."
With determination fueling their championship mindset, the Danville Blue Devils aim for even greater achievements in 2025.
