Lieren Doyle steps in as the new head coach for the Ash Grove Lady Pirates softball team. A graduate of Missouri State University, Doyle is still getting to know the Lady Pirates.
“I did some summer ball with them, but not the full varsity team,” said Doyle. “I did get to see some strengths and weaknesses this summer. Ash Grove has a rich tradition in softball, and we hope to rebuild a program that reflects that. The girls are excited to get the season kicked off and add a lot of enthusiasm.”
The Lady Pirates ended their season with an 11-1 loss to Mt. Vernon in the district tournament, finishing with a 10-12 record.
The Lady Pirates are returning seven lettermen and will have six new players—five of which are freshman.
“Mechanics are strong in the field and at bat,” said Doyle. “Our strong bat should help us this spring. We are working on increasing accuracy of throws, but fielding mechanics and situational play are really good.”
Leading from the mound is junior Hailey Woods. This season marks Woods’ second as lead pitcher.
“Hailey is always encouraging and pushing the other girls to become better or not hang their heads over a mistake,” said Doyle. “She is strong at-bat also.”
Seniors Morgan Allred (3rd base) and Kayla Keene (outfield) offer strength and experience. Kayla Keene earned second team All-Mid-Lakes Conference.
“Allred is very quick at batting, with a good on-base percentage, and she brings confidence, athleticism, and speed,” said Doyle. “Keene is one of our strongest hitters on the team—very quick.”
Juniors Hannah Robinson and Sydnee Cashio return to the batting lineup. Robinson will play catcher, and Doyle is confident in her speed.
Cashio (infield/outfield) is recovering from an injury but should be clear for the Lady Pirates’ season opener at Lockwood on March 18.
Senior Trinity Gray will play left field, and sophomore Josie Barnett will cover 2nd base.
Several freshmen may see varsity time as well.
“I am excited about our freshmen,” said Doyle. “I think they bring a lot of different things as far as speed, mechanics, and confidence. We have five coming in, and potentially four could see varsity time. That’s exciting to me as we are building our program and starting new now that I’m coaching.”
Doyle is encouraged by support from the Ash Grove community, and she plans to start a summer league for area schools.
“The community exhibits tremendous support for its school programs, and we’ve already seen that here as the season starts,” said Doyle. “The girls are really encouraging, and their team chemistry is slowly growing as we approach our first game. We’ve really been working on becoming fundamentally sound and aligning their skills with their positions. They have become so much more accurate and confident.”
