The 2026 high school softball season is scheduled to get underway this week for teams in Class 5A. To prepare fans for the upcoming season, the Deseret News has compiled capsules for every team in 5A. Every coach was invited to participate and submit information.
The region rankings are based on coaches’ preseason projections.
There are six new softball coaches in 5A this year: Kent Bertelsen (Hillcrest), Huntyr Ava (West), Curtis Brown (Northridge), Chris Opheikens (Brighton), Courtney Johnson (Viewmont) and Brian Mair (Wasatch).
Here are the 5A teams and players to watch this upcoming season.
Region 4
1. Cyprus Pirates
Head coach: Rick Quinn (3rd year)
2025 record: 15-13 (tied for second in Region 4 with a 7-3 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 10 in 5A
2025 postseason: 2-2 record, Eliminated by Maple Mountain in 5A Super Regionals
2025 offense: 7.3 rpg (No. 15 in 5A)
2025 defense: 4.8 rpg (No. 7 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Abbie Hurtado, Pitcher/Middle Infield, So.
- Franke Kelsch, Infield, Jr.
- Sydney Julio, Catcher/Outfield, Jr.
Key newcomers:
- We have a nice mix of incoming freshman this season.
Coach comment: “We will be a young team with not alot of varsity experience. We are excited to see some of our returning players get their opportunity to shine.”
2. West Jordan Jaguars
Head coach: McHailee Danner (3rd year)
2025 record: 24-4 (first in Region 4 with a 10-0 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 3 in 5A
2025 postseason: 7-1 record, Beat Salem Hills in 5A Championship
2025 offense: 9 rpg (No. 9 in 5A)
2025 defense: 3.7 rpg (No. 3 in 5A)
Additional info not provided
3. Taylorsville Warriors
Head coach: Kjera Miranda (3rd year)
2025 record: 19-10 (tied for second in Region 4 with a 7-3 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 8 in 6A
2025 postseason: 2-2 record, Eliminated by Olympus in 6A Bracket Play
2025 offense: 8.5 rpg (No. 11 in 6A)
2025 defense: 5.4 rpg (No. 10 in 6A)
Returning contributors:
- Aleya Wegner, Pitcher, Sr.
- Sonnet Magalogo, 2nd Base, Sr.
- Karli Brown, Shortstop, Sr.
- Demi Miller, Outfield, Jr.
- Amari Agula, DH, Jr.
Key newcomers:
- Danika Fotheringham, So.
- Gianna Carlson, Outfield, Fr.
- Maddison Goble, Outfield/1st Base, Fr.
- Lola Egolf, Catcher, Fr.
- Jessica Johnson, Utility, Fr.
- Addison Mauger, Utility, Fr.
Coach comment: “We are young, but not to be underestimated!”
4. Hunter Wolverines
Head coach: Heather Carlson (11th year)
2025 record: 9-15 (fourth in Region 4 with a 3-6 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 15 in 5A
2025 postseason: 2-3 record, Eliminated by Bountiful in 5A Super Regionals
2025 offense: 7.5 rpg (No. 14 in 5A)
2025 defense: 9.3 rpg (No. 18 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Kenya Lapuaho, 3B, Sr.
- Jordyn Napoles, SS, Sr.
- Loiana Iongi, Utility, Jr.
- Lexi Olsen, Catcher, Jr.
- Leila Aiono, Pitcher, So.
- Sydni Miller, Centerfield, So.
Key newcomers:
- Iza Mailo, Fr.
Coach comment: “Looking forward to picking right up where we left off and having a competitive fun season.”
5. Hillcrest Huskies
Head coach: Kent Bertelsen (1st year)
2025 record: 13-10 (tied for second in Region 10 with a 9-3 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 13 in 4A
2025 postseason: 0-2 record, Eliminated by Mountain Crest in 4A Regionals
2025 offense: 9.9 rpg (No. 1 in 4A)
2025 defense: 6.6 rpg (No. 13 in 4A)
Returning contributors:
- Avilynn Godfrey, 2B, Sr.
- Lila Vadrey, OF, Jr.
- Savil Hughes, SS, So.
Key newcomers:
- Grace Pulham, P, Fr.
- Lanie Mathews, Utility, Fr.
- Sienna Sanchez, Utility, Fr.
Coach comment: “Should be a great season great upper class with great freshmen coming in.”
6. Kearns Cougars
Head coach: Paul Lovata (4th year)
2025 record: 4-15 (sixth in Region 4 with a 0-9 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 23 in 5A
2025 postseason: 0-2 record, Eliminated by Cyprus in 5A Regionals
2025 offense: 4.1 rpg (No. 26 in 5A)
2025 defense: 11.8 rpg (No. 22 in 5A)
Additional info not provided
7. West Panthers
Head coach: Huntyr Ava (1st year)
2025 record: 4-15 (sixth in Region 6 with a 4-8 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 26 in 5A
2025 postseason: Did not qualify
2025 offense: 6.6 rpg (No. 20 in 5A)
2025 defense: 14.9 rpg (No. 26 in 5A)
Additional info not provided
8. Granger Lancers
Head coach: Mark Wood (6th year)
2025 record: 5-18 (fifth in Region 4 with a 2-8 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 24 in 5A
2025 postseason: 0-2 record, Eliminated by Spanish Fork in 5A Regionals
2025 offense: 4.3 rpg (No. 25 in 5A)
2025 defense: 12.9 rpg (No. 24 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Jocelyn Moss, 2nd Base, Sr.
- Lea Naeata, Centerfield, Sr.
- Haylie Harper, 3rd Base, Sr.
- Mackenzie Salazar, Catcher, Sr.
- Daizee Hardman, Pitcher/1B, Jr.
- Alyiana Arriaga, Pitcher/1B, So.
Key newcomers:
- Charli Moorhead, Infield, Fr.
Coach comment: “We are very excited for this season. We have a lot of new players as always and look forward to teaching and working with them this year.”
Region 5
1. Box Elder Bees
Head coach: Brian Merrill (7th year)
2025 record: 28-5 (tied for first in Region 5 with a 13-1 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 4 in 5A
2025 postseason: 4-2 record, Eliminated by Salem Hills in 5A Bracket Play
2025 offense: 11.4 rpg (No. 2 in 5A)
2025 defense: 3 rpg (No. 2 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Maclee Willard, Catcher, Sr.
- Lucy Braegger, Pitcher, Sr.
- Kailee Hall, Outfield, Jr.
- Kennadie Blackmer, Pitcher, Jr.
- Lucy Griffen, Infield, Jr.
- Izibel Mason, Infield, Jr.
Key newcomers:
- Maddy Jeppsen, Infield, Jr.
- Olivia Daniels, Outfield, So.
- Maycie Moss, Pitcher, Fr.
Coach comment: “We have got to the final four the last two seasons and are looking to take that next step this year.”
2. Fremont Silverwolves
Head coach: Liz Bennett (2nd year)
2025 record: 11-16 (second in Region 1 with a 8-2 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 10 in 6A
2025 postseason: 0-2 record, Eliminated by Bingham in 6A Super Regionals
2025 offense: 7.8 rpg (No. 10 in 6A)
2025 defense: 8.3 rpg (No. 10 in 6A)
Additional info not provided
3. West Field Longhorns
Head coach: Amanda Koford (2nd year)
2025 record: 19-6 (second in Region 11 with a 9-3 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 3 in 4A
2025 postseason: 4-2 record, Eliminated by Desert Hills in 4A Bracket Play
2025 offense: 9.5 rpg (No. 3 in 4A)
2025 defense: 3.7 rpg (No. 5 in 4A)
Returning contributors:
- Rylee Andreasen, Outfield, Sr.
- Ayzlee Sessions, Outfield, Sr.
- Brylee Leatherwood, Shortstop, Sr.
- Kam Bell, 3rd Base, Sr.
- Brinklee Hadley, Pitcher, So.
Key newcomers:
- Alena Lynch, Pitcher, Fr.
- Kadence Dyson, Infield, Fr.
Coach comment: “The Longhorns are thrilled to experience the high-quality softball that is found in Region 5, and believe we have what it takes to compete with these great schools.”
4. Clearfield Falcons
Head coach: Kamie Hoggan (4th year)
2025 record: 16-10 (third in Region 5 with a 10-4 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 12 in 5A
2025 postseason: 2-3 record, Eliminated by Olympus in 5A Super Regionals
2025 offense: 10 rpg (No. 5 in 5A)
2025 defense: 4.2 rpg (No. 6 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Lyla Leonhardt, OF, So.
- Ally Bingham, C, So.
- Skylar Davis, SS, So.
Key newcomers:
- Hannah Hensley, P, Fr.
Coach comment: “Young, but talented.”
5. Northridge Knights
Head coach: Curtis Brown (1st year)
2025 record: 8-16 (tied for sixth in Region 5 with a 4-10 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 18 in 5A
2025 postseason: 1-2 record, Eliminated by Hunter in 5A Regionals
2025 offense: 7 rpg (No. 17 in 5A)
2025 defense: 10.8 rpg (No. 19 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Kaylee Shirreffs, Pitcher/2B, Sr.
- Madisyn Lecoure, Shortstop, Sr.
- Burklee Larson, Centerfield, Sr.
- Kiersten Carbone, 2nd/3rd Base, So.
Key newcomers:
- Novalei Perlick, Right Field, So.
Coach comment: “Good, very young.”
6. Bonneville Lakers
Head coach: Miranda Hernandez (2nd year)
2025 record: 9-18 (fifth in Region 5 with a 5-9 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 20 in 5A
2025 postseason: 2-0 record, Eliminated by Box Elder in 5A Super Regionals
2025 offense: 6.7 rpg (No. 19 in 5A)
2025 defense: 9.1 rpg (No. 16 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Elle Summers, SS/C, Sr.
- Marley Chournos, CF, Jr.
- Samantha Mills, C, Jr.
- Madilyn DeGroot, 3B, Jr.
Key newcomers:
- Cyndee Brown, SS/P, Fr.
- Kaytlie Tipplits, 1B/P, Fr.
Coach comment: “The upcoming season looks promising with a strong group of returning players who bring experience, chemistry, and leadership.”
7. Roy Royals
Head coach: Steph Mark (9th year)
2025 record: 0-20 (eighth in Region 5 with a 0-14 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 28 in 5A
2025 postseason: Did not qualify
2025 offense: 2.9 rpg (No. 27 in 5A)
2025 defense: 15.5 rpg (No. 28 in 5A)
Additional info not provided
Region 6
1. Bountiful Redhawks
Head coach: Darby Freeland (2nd year)
2025 record: 29-6 (tied for first in Region 5 with a 13-1 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 2 in 5A
2025 postseason: 5-2 record, Eliminated by West Jordan in 5A Bracket Play
2025 offense: 7.1 rpg (No. 16 in 5A)
2025 defense: 2.7 rpg (No. 1 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- McKinley Duryea, Outfield, Sr.
- Kamryn Rasmussen, Utility, Sr.
- Aimee Moore, Outfield, Sr.
- Aspyn Danner, Catcher, Jr.
- Ava Howe, Infield, So.
- Dylan Carpenter, Pitcher, So.
Key newcomers:
- Peyton Orchard, Infield, Fr.
Coach comment: “We are looking forward to the 2026 season. We lost a prominent senior class and will be looking to see which of our younger players will step up.”
2. Viewmont Vikings
Head coach: Courtney Johnson (1st year)
2025 record: 12-16 (fourth in Region 5 with a 7-7 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 14 in 5A
2025 postseason: 2-3 record, Eliminated by West Jordan in 5A Super Regionals
2025 offense: 6.9 rpg (No. 18 in 5A)
2025 defense: 8.3 rpg (No. 14 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Ricki Smith, Shortstop, Sr.
- Marlee Moser, Catcher, Sr.
- Peyton Burningham, 1st Base, Sr.
- Raegyn Dahlke, 3rd Base, Sr.
- Betty Cluff, Centerfield, Jr.
- Camille Taylor, Outfield, Jr.
- London Dickerson, Pitcher, So.
Key newcomers:
- Olivia McGarvey, Pitcher, Fr.
Coach comment: “New season. New coach. New region. New opportunity.”
3. Olympus Titans
Head coach: Haylee Eskelson (3rd year)
2025 record: 22-5 (first in Region 6 with a 12-0 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 5 in 5A
2025 postseason: 3-3 record, Eliminated by Box Elder in 5A Bracket Play
2025 offense: 8.8 rpg (No. 10 in 5A)
2025 defense: 4 rpg (No. 4 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Charlotte Comer, Outfield, Sr.
- Jaedin Muggleston, Pitcher/Utility, Sr.
- Mya Palcher, Utility, Sr.
- Allisson Robles, Catcher/Shortstop, Jr.
- Jocelyn Stern, 3rd Base/Utility, Jr.
- Ruby Corey, Outfield, Jr.
- Harper Rutledge, Pitcher, Jr.
- Sydney Birkeland, Outfield/Utility, Jr.
Key newcomers:
- Ashton Nelson, Pitcher/1B, So.
- Maggie Robinson, Catcher/Utility, Fr.
Coach comment: “I am excited for a fresh start this season. We have some new talent coming up that I think will surprise people.”
4. Alta Hawks
Head coach: Ashley Hobbs (2nd year)
2025 record: 8-16 (tied for fourth in Region 6 with a 5-7 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 19 in 5A
2025 postseason: 1-2 record, Eliminated by Viewmont in 5A Regionals
2025 offense: 9.1 rpg (No. 8 in 5A)
2025 defense: 11.3 rpg (No. 21 in 5A)
Additional info not provided
Coach comment: “This season will be about continuing to raise the standard of Alta Softball. We have strong returning leadership and hungry underclassmen ready to prove themselves.”
5. Skyline Eagles
Head coach: Russ Jessop (11th year)
2025 record: 12-18 (tied for fourth in Region 6 with a 5-7 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 22 in 5A
2025 postseason: 0-2 record, Eliminated by Cedar Valley in 5A Regionals
2025 offense: 9.8 rpg (No. 7 in 5A)
2025 defense: 12.5 rpg (No. 23 in 5A)
Coach comment: “Excited for another fun season with these gals.”
6. Brighton Bengals
Head coach: Chris Opheikens (1st year)
2025 record: 9-15 (third in Region 6 with a 6-6 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 16 in 5A
2025 postseason: 1-2 record, Eliminated by Wasatch in 5A Regionals
2025 offense: 8.1 rpg (No. 12 in 5A)
2025 defense: 8.1 rpg (No. 13 in 5A)
Coach comment: “We have a great core group of athletes. We also added some solid young talent that should only make us stronger.”
7. Woods Cross Wildcats
Head coach: Casey Plowman (9th year)
2025 record: 7-16 (tied for sixth in Region 5 with a 4-10 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 21 in 5A
2025 postseason: 0-2 record, Eliminated by Clearfield in 5A Regionals
2025 offense: 5.7 rpg (No. 24 in 5A)
2025 defense: 11.2 rpg (No. 20 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Audrey Ayala, Utility, Sr.
- Savannah Juggert, Utility, Sr.
- Ashlynn Nelson, 1st Base, Sr.
- Kaylee Moen, Outfield, Sr.
- Rylee Feller, Infield, Sr.
- Whitney Winegar, Catcher, Jr.
- Bree Benson, Pitcher, So.
Key newcomers:
- Aislinn Elmer, Pitcher, Fr.
- Sadie Wall, Utility, Fr.
Coach comment: “I have 6 returning seniors that will bring a lot of experience for us. Our freshman/sophomore class will bring a lot to the table this year as well.”
Region 7
1. Salem Hills SkyHawks
Head coach: Kalab Stokes (11th year)
2025 record: 27-6 (tied for first in Region 7 with a 10-2 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 1 in 5A
2025 postseason: 5-2 record, Eliminated by West Jordan in 5A Championship
2025 offense: 11.3 rpg (No. 3 in 5A)
2025 defense: 4.2 rpg (No. 5 in 5A)
Additional info not provided
2. Pleasant Grove Vikings
Head coach: Leslie Young (9th year)
2025 record: 24-8 (first in Region 3 with a 9-1 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 2 in 6A
2025 postseason: 3-2 record, Eliminated by Mountain Ridge in 6A Bracket Play
2025 offense: 10.8 rpg (No. 1 in 6A)
2025 defense: 5.6 rpg (No. 8 in 6A)
Returning contributors:
- Allyson Young, SS/C, Sr.
- Mary Severe, Outfield, Sr.
- Mailey Gillen, 1B/Outfield, Sr.
- Sadie Soelberg, 2B/Outfield, Sr.
- Hailey Goodwin, Outfield, Sr.
- Mia Mendez, 1B/Outfield, Jr.
- Olivia Barnes, Pitcher/Utility, Jr.
- Maya Pawelek, Pitcher/1B/Outfield, Jr.
- Londyn Moeller, Outfield, Jr.
- Cortney Sheriff, Pitcher/Utility, So.
- Oakley Cook, Outfield, So.
- Caitlyn Day, 3rd Base/Utility, So.
- Sunny Soelberg, Catcher/Utility, So.
- Taylor Walker, 3rd Base/Utility, So.
- Elsa Nez, Pitcher/1B, So.
- Rachel Green, Pitcher/Outfield, So.
- Hadley Amador, Outfield, So.
- Riley Allred, 2B/Outfield, So.
Key newcomers:
- Mia Hernandez, Catcher/3B, Jr.
- Lily Whiting, Pitcher/Utility, So.
- Lylah Gracia, Utility, Fr.
Coach comment: “After losing almost an entire varsity field, we will be rebuilding. I am very confident that the upcoming varsity players are ready for the challenge.”
3. Springville Red Devils
Head coach: Jill Thackeray (13th year)
2025 record: 20-8 (tied for first in Region 7 with a 10-2 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 6 in 5A
2025 postseason: 2-2 record, Eliminated by Bountiful in 5A Bracket Play
2025 offense: 11.6 rpg (No. 1 in 5A)
2025 defense: 5.1 rpg (No. 9 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Allyx Haveron, Pitcher, Sr.
- Jaz Ciliezar, Outfield, Sr.
- Kalia Sjoberg, Utility, Sr.
- Morgan Fairbourne, 2nd Base, Sr.
- Sami DeLlamas, Outfield, Sr.
Key newcomers:
- Raegan Walker, 1B/Pitcher, Sr.
Coach comment: “With nine seniors who have been working hard and leading the way, we have a strong foundation to build on.”
4. Spanish Fork Dons
Head coach: Natalie Jarvis (7th year)
2025 record: 16-14 (tied for third in Region 7 with a 7-5 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 9 in 5A
2025 postseason: 2-2 record, Eliminated by Taylorsville in 5A Super Regionals
2025 offense: 6.2 rpg (No. 22 in 5A)
2025 defense: 4.8 rpg (No. 8 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Lia Higginson, Centerfielder, Sr.
- Paizley Boman, Pitcher, So.
- Mayci Shelly, 1st Base, So.
Key newcomers:
- Emily Evans, So.
- McKenna Anderson, So.
Coach comment: “Our focus this year is continuing to improve, working hard every day, and competing the way Spanish Fork softball always does.”
5. Maple Mountain Golden Eagles
Head coach: Avery Leckie (5th year)
2025 record: 21-10 (tied for third in Region 7 with a 7-5 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 7 in 5A
2025 postseason: 3-2 record, Eliminated by Bountiful in 5A Bracket Play
2025 offense: 9.9 rpg (No. 6 in 5A)
2025 defense: 5.6 rpg (No. 11 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Izzie Groneman, 3rd Base, Sr.
- Gracie Jensen, Pitcher, Sr.
- McClain Carter, Centerfield, Sr.
- Kyla Donegan, Shortstop, Sr.
- Brin Cherrington, Catcher, Sr.
- Bella Ekenstam, 2nd Base, Sr.
Coach comment: “We have nine returning seniors that all have great energy, work ethic and a strong commitment to improve every day. We can’t wait to see what they do this year.”
6. Payson Lions
Head coach: Makenzie Simons (5th year)
2025 record: 22-8 (tied for first in Region 8 with a 8-2 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 4 in 4A
2025 postseason: 3-2 record, Eliminated by Ridgeline in 4A Bracket Play
2025 offense: 9.4 rpg (No. 5 in 4A)
2025 defense: 5 rpg (No. 7 in 4A)
Coach comment: “Excited for another great year full of teamwork, grit, passion, and competitive energy!”
7. Wasatch Wasps
Head coach: Brian Mair (1st year)
2025 record: 10-21 (sixth in Region 7 with a 3-9 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 17 in 5A
2025 postseason: 2-3 record, Eliminated by Salem Hills in 5A Super Regionals
2025 offense: 6.4 rpg (No. 21 in 5A)
2025 defense: 9.2 rpg (No. 17 in 5A)
Returning contributors:
- Chloe Bell, Pitcher, So.
- Sydnee Mcphie, Catcher, So.
- Payton Sunland, Utility, So.
Key newcomers:
- Adalena Provost, Pitcher, Fr.
- Braelyn Hill, Shortstop, Fr.
Coach comment: “We are young but have some good talent in our freshman and sophomore classes to go along with solid juniors and seniors.”
8. Timpview Thunderbirds
Head coach: Heather Evans (3rd year)
2025 record: 0-17 (seventh in Region 7 with a 0-12 record)
2025 RPI ranking: No. 27 in 5A
2025 postseason: Did not qualify
2025 offense: 1.6 rpg (No. 28 in 5A)
2025 defense: 15.4 rpg (No. 27 in 5A)
Additional info not provided