After a year without a program, the East Knox Lady Bulldogs softball team is back, and they’re ready to prove themselves. Under the leadership of Head Coach Abby Lester and assistant coaches Cami Bailey and Hope Straight, the team is focused on growth, competition, and building a strong foundation for the future.
With 14 girls on the roster, including seven players who have never played before, the coaches are emphasizing fundamentals, team chemistry, and a resilient mindset. “It’s a big deal to have a full team this year,” Lester said. “Our motto is' One Team, One Heart, One Legacy ’ . We want these girls to play with passion and confidence.”
Bailey, an East Knox alumna, echoed the excitement. “I helped coach in previous years, and being able to bring the program back is special. It’s about more than wins and losses—it’s about individual and team growth.”
Straight, who played softball at Ohio State, is committed to developing the players’ skills. “We have a young team, but they’re eager to learn,” she said. “Our focus is to help them understand the game and work together as a unit.”
Players Stepping Up
For the players, preparation for the season has been a mix of lifting, conditioning, and personal training. Junior Lydia Hill has been putting in extra work outside of team practices. “I’ve been lifting a lot and focusing on communication,” she said. “I want to hit .500 this season and have a fun, competitive year with my teammates.”
Mackenzie Wilson, also a junior, has been training with her dad and grandfather every night to refine her game. “I’ve been working hard to become a better outfielder and learn new aspects of the game,” she said.
Sophomore Cloe Tucker has balanced softball training with track and travel ball. “My mindset has been my biggest challenge,” she admitted. “I need to relax and trust my game.”
Ava Faucett, a sophomore pitcher and first baseman, is returning to softball after a year and a half away. “I just want to work hard and help my team. It’s exciting to be part of a new team and make new memories.”
Building Team Chemistry
With a mix of experienced players and newcomers, team chemistry is a priority. The girls have been supporting each other both on and off the field. “I try to be uplifting,” Hill said. “A simple text message with positive words can go a long way.”
Tucker considers herself one of the more vocal leaders on the team. “I try to stay positive and encourage everyone,” she said. Faucett believes in building strong relationships. “Becoming closer as a team will help us succeed.”
Balancing sports with schoolwork has also been a challenge for some players, but they all prioritize academics. Wilson juggles softball, track, FFA, and a waitressing job. Faucett works at a local pizza shop but makes sure school comes first.
Looking Ahead
As the season approaches, the Lady Bulldogs have their eyes on key matchups, with Danville being a common answer for the game they’re most excited about. “It’s always a big game,” Hill said. Wilson is looking forward to competing against all the Knox Morrow Athletic Conference (KMAC) schools, while Tucker is eager for senior night against Danville.
Despite the excitement, the coaches recognize the challenges ahead. “We’re a young team, and we’re playing catch-up after missing a season,” Lester said. “But the girls are working hard, and our first scrimmage was a win, which was a great start.”
Bailey emphasized accountability. “We’ve drilled into the players that accountability is key—both for themselves and their teammates.”
Straight added that team bonding will be crucial. “Some of these girls have never played together or even played at all. The family aspect will be important for our success.”
Community Support Making a Difference
The return of the softball program has been met with overwhelming support from the East Knox community. “Our community has been incredible,” Lester said. “Thanks to fundraisers like the one led by Bret Maxwell, we have new helmets, bats, and gear. That kind of backing means everything.”
With a strong foundation being laid and a determined group of players and coaches, the 2025 East Knox Lady Bulldogs are ready to make their mark. “This season is about more than just the scoreboard,” Bailey said. “It’s about growth, teamwork, and bringing East Knox softball back where it belongs.”
