Ladycats aiming high for 2026 season

The Aledo Ladycats softball team has won 65 games against only eight losses in the last two seasons, both resulting in a trip to the state semifinals. Achieving this high level of success is a taxing feat, but one that has been rewarding for players and coaches alike as the culture has continued to solidify Aledo’s status as a powerful contender.

“Coming off back-to-back trips to the state semifinals, I feel really proud of where our softball program stands right now,” Ladycats head coach Heather Myers said. “Making a deep run two years in a row says a lot about the consistency, culture, and work ethic our players have built. Overall, the state of the program is strong. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished, but we’re not satisfied. The goal is to keep building, keep improving, and position ourselves to compete for a state championship.”

Many great sports teams in history have featured one great player, one “go-to” person, the one the guy in the stands at a game says, “Don’t let him get the ball!” about. Myers sees the Ladycats roster full of these types of players, which is both fortunate and further contributes to the unselfish aspect of the culture.

“For us, it’s not just about one special group or one great season; it’s about establishing a standard,” Myers said. “Our seniors have done a tremendous job leading by example, and that’s carried down to our younger players. The expectations are clear; we compete every day, we prepare the right way, and we represent our school and community with pride.”

The Ladycats saw several key cogs to last year’s team walk the graduation stage, leaving holes in the lineup and on the roster. However, Myers is looking forward to showcasing her team’s depth and variety across the board.

“I’m excited about the depth in our program,” Myers said. “We’ve got underclassmen who’ve gained valuable experience in high-pressure games, and that’s huge. They’ve seen what it takes to get to the semifinals, and now they’re hungry to take that next step.”

Key players to look out for this season will include senior Kyleigh Pawlak. Myers described her as “an absolute offensive threat” with no hole in her swing that can drive the ball around the field. Additionally, her reactions and instincts are strong at third base. Delaney Rosser is one of those rare players who impacts the game on both sides of the ball. Offensively, she’s consistent and dangerous in the lineup, and defensively she’s steady and dependable. Furthermore, Myers said she makes the routine plays and the tough ones look routine. Sophomore first baseman Brooklynn Taloa plays well beyond her years, is defensively sound, fundamentally strong, and not afraid of big moments, according to Myers. At the plate, she said Taloa is a heavy hitter who can change the momentum of a game with one swing.

“Rylee Marx gives us a huge advantage in the circle,” Myers said of her junior ace. “She’s a talented pitcher who competes every inning and keeps hitters off balance. What really sets her apart, though, is her bat. She’s not just a pitcher; she’s a legitimate offensive weapon.”

Myers said Kayleigh Martin is a difference maker behind the plate who has a great arm and does an excellent job controlling the game defensively. Offensively, she said Martin brings power and confidence, and she’s someone opposing teams have to plan around. Jordyn Edington covers more ground than just about anyone, per Myers. She has speed for days and tracks balls down that most players can’t reach. At the plate, she’s small but mighty; scrappy, competitive, and capable of coming through in big moments.

Overall, you cannot run a business, execute many tasks, or even complete a fast food order without communication, and Myers makes sure the players are talking to each other early and often throughout the game to put themselves in advantageous positions while also remaining connected.

“Communication is the foundation of everything we do. Whether it’s calling off a fly ball, talking through defensive adjustments, or supporting each other in the dugout, our players consistently communicate clearly and confidently.” Myers said. “That helps us stay connected on the field and work through challenges quickly. Just as important is the value and respect our players have for one another. They truly care about their teammates, not just as athletes, but as people. That creates trust, accountability, and a strong team culture. When players know the person next to them has their back, they play with more confidence and purpose. Those strengths carry over into every part of our program and give us a solid foundation for success.”

The team’s final thoughts ahead of the season?

“Win the last game of the season. Period,” Myers said.