By Dana Harding (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
A new face will be in the dugout this season for West Plains softball, as head coach Mike Kenslow takes over the program.
The 2021 Zizzers finished 13-11, falling to Jefferson City in the opening round of districts.
“It was a disappointing season with the talented group we had,” Kenslow said. “We had higher hopes for our season and the athletes.”
A trio of graduates will continue their respective athletic careers at the collegiate level this season in Megan McCrackin (Missouri State University – West Plains), Emmy Howell (Drury University – Rugby) and Kylie Kittrell (Evangel University – Soccer).
McCrackin will reunite with former Zizzer softball coaches Amy Marshall and Don Long.
With every graduation cycle comes opportunity for development, and a talented quartet will step into leadership roles for West Plains this season in Zoey Williams, Allyssa Joyner, Brooklyn Mead and Hannah Judd.
Williams, a senior shortstop, finished the season with a .704 slugging percentage, 26 runs batted in and 16 stolen bases.
“Zoey brings strong leadership and hard work to the team,” Kenslow said. “A key leader, varsity starter for three seasons and strong leader on the team.”
CLICK HERE FOR LINKS TO ALL OF OUR FALL PREVIEWS
Joyner, a junior pitcher, recorded 99 strikeouts and a 2.60 ERA last season. At the plate, she hit .410 with 10 runs batted in.
Senior outfielders Mead and Judd also return for the Zizzers.
In addition to his returning corps, Kenslow expects a host of varsity newcomers to compete for playing time this season.
“Looking at many younger girls to fill the infield/outfield this season,” Kenslow said. “We have several, seasoned juniors who have had a good experience on the JV and are vying for varsity positions. They have put in a lot of work and know what it takes to be successful.”
“Pitching and defense are our greatest strengths,” Kenslow said. “Having Zoey Williams (senior) having varsity level experience will be a huge contribution. Zoey is an outstanding leader.”
In addition, Kenslow believes his team’s multisport approach will provide significant benefits with both chemistry and exposure to high-level varsity competition.
DOWNLOAD THE O-ZONE APP NOW!
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD FOR APPLE
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROID
“We have many athletes who have had great success with winning on the Lady Zizzer basketball team,” Kenslow said. “They’re coming off a fantastic state championship this previous season, and they know what winning feels like. I am expecting that same feeling to carry over into softball this season.”
West Plains will open its season Aug. 26 in the Morrisville Tournament.
