After four-years as softball coach at Newton County Academy that saw improvement every year, Brooke Steele has moved to MHSAA as coach at Choctaw County.
“I have a young team, but they are very athletic and diverse,” she said. ''I have girls I can put in multiple positions.''
Steele expects pitching to be the team's strength. She is counting on four pitchers, led by hard-throwing senior Akira Taylor. The others are Mary Claire Salley, an eighth grader, and sophomores Molly Thomas and and Maylee Hollis.
Hollis, a lefty, will be used mainly in relief. Steele said the different release point for a southpaw can throw off a batter's timing. Hollis can also play first base.
Salley will be in the outfield when not pitching. “Mary Claire is very young, but I have faith in her,” Steele said. “She has a strong bat.”
Thomas will be at first when not pitching and Taylor can play multiple positions.
Sophomore Makenzie Sanders is penciled in for catching duties, sophomore Riley Wells at second base and freshman Simmons Brooks at third. Several girls are in the mix for shortstop.
Freshman Jalia James will be in the outfield. Steele described her as being “outrageously fast.”
Others who figure to see considerable diamond time include senior Raquela Graham and Lexis Pittman, an eighth graders.
Steele said keys for the success will be consistency at the plate, pitchers throwing strikes and playing smart. “Small ball is very important. You have to be able to lay down bunts.”
The Lady Chargers will compete in Region 4-3A with Houston, Hatley, Aberdeen and Noxubee County.
Houston is a tradition power. The Lady Hilltoppers were undefeated when the pandemic ended the 2020 season after winning the state championship in 2018 and reaching the North State final in 2019.
