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The stars of 2025-26 Katy Tigers Softball
Were it not for a stunning 7–5 loss in the Regional Semifinals—sealed by Clear Springs’ Eryn Polite on a three-run walk-off—the path to a 6A Division I title looked very real. Despite that abrupt ending, the Tigers have had ample time to regroup and reload for 2026.
It starts with Oklahoma pledge Ella Kate “EK” Smith (Sr. RHP/OF). A true two-way force, Smith dominated every phase of the game last season, going 11–1 out of the bullpen with a 0.58 ERA and 145 strikeouts, while also hitting .614 with 15 home runs and 45 RBIs. The District 19-6A MVP added another line to her résumé in October, earning a gold medal with the United States U-18 national team at the WSBC World Cup.
Still, it’s far from an EK-only show.
Katy Sr. C Maddie Smith (NC State signee)Farrah Sheeren (VYPE/Phlox Photography)
Behind the plate, senior catcher Maddie Smith—an NC State signee—returns after a first-team all-district campaign. Fellow first-team senior Lexie Waugh (UT Arlington) will see time in the outfield when she’s not splitting catching duties. The next wave is already in place, led by first-team infielders Evie Willemssen (Jr., Auburn-commit) and Nevaeh Phillips (So.), while freshman Haley Schmitt (RHP/IF) appears poised for a breakout season.
EK has described this group as “gritty,” and if all goes according to plan, that edge could put Katy in position to hoist its third state championship—and first since 2019.
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Guided by head coach Stacey Marshall, the Lady Falcons have blended experience with urgency — a balance that has defined this era. And with that core expected back next winter, continuity becomes the program’s greatest asset.
The stars of 2025-26 Barbers Hill Softball
So often, opposing game plans revolved around superstar pitcher Hailey Nutter—now at Kentucky—that Macie Bryant emerged as the rare second ace at Fuller’s disposal. From earning District 19-5A Co-Pitcher of the Year recognition to being named to the State All-Tournament team, committing to LSU, and representing Team USA, it has become increasingly clear that Bryant (Jr. RHP) was built for the spotlight.
Barbers Hill Jr. RHP Macie Bryant (LSU commit)Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Outside the circle, Barbers Hill boasts no shortage of game-changing talent, particularly within its loaded Class of 2027. Outfielder Savannah “Savi” Barrientos and second baseman Aybrie Corona return after earning first-team all-district honors, joined by catcher Zoey Hood, the District 19-5A Defensive Player of the Year.
Sisters AshLynn Cooper (Sr. OF)—a Blinn signee—and JosLynn Cooper (Jr. UT) were both second-team selections, while junior shortstop Izzy Lawrence (North Carolina-commit) rounds out an exceptionally balanced Eagles lineup.
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