The University Heights Academy Lady Blazers’ softball team will be stocked full of athletes in 2025, which puts a smile on second-year coach Ashley Ezell’s face. Although she faces a challenge of teaching the game to about half the team who has never played softball before.
UHA went 5-11 last year and lost three key players, including pitcher and leading home run hitter Chayse Gilliland, center fielder Krista Keller, and third baseman J’re McKnight.
It looked for a minute like the Lady Blazers wouldn’t have enough players to field a team in 2025. But several volleyball players and soccer players stepped in and now Ezell has a roster full of athletes.
Ezell said the preseason has been a challenge.
Pitcher Katherine Wood returns this season along with catcher/first baseman Madison Williams, catcher/infielder Brooke Hancock, and outfielder Emily Dilday.
Wood will handle most of the pitching duties, but Ezell said she has others who could see time in the circle.
Outfielder Meg Long and utility player Adalyn Isom also are newcomers to the team that should help this season.
Ezell said she is looking to add more games to her schedule, but she thinks the slate fits the needs of her team well.
UHA opens the season Monday at home against Dawson Springs.
2025 University Heights Academy Lady Blazers
Coach: Ashley Ezell (2nd Year)
2024 Record: 5-11
Key Losses: Chayse Gilliland (P/U), Krista Keller (CF), J’re McKnight (3B).
Key Returners: Katherine Wood (P/U), Brooke Hancock (C/U), Madison Williams (C/1B), Emily Dilday (OF/P).
Key Newcomers: Olivia Oakley (P/IF), Meg Long (OF), Adayln Isom (U), Taylor Cantrell (3B), Josie Torpey (RF), Kenady Quarles (DP).
Coach’s Outlook: “It will be a year of growth! Of my 11 players, five are brand new to the sport, so a lot of ground has to be made up.”
Opening Day Lineup:
P – Wood
C – Hancock
1B – Williams
2B – Isom
3B – Taylor Cantrell
SS – Oakley
LF – Long
CF – Dilday
RF – Josie Torpey
DP – Kenady Quarles
Photo by Joe Wilson