The stars of 2025-26 Kingwood Mustangs Softball
No. 2 -- Kingwood Mustangs
Few stories were as compelling as Kingwood’s a year ago. Long chasing a UIL title that always seemed just out of reach—most recently with a Final Four run in 2024—the Mustangs finally broke through last May. Fueled by a “prove it” mentality, KHS went 34–4–1 and captured the first state championship in program history, defeating Forney 4–1 in its fifth overall tournament appearance.
Now, with a striking new ring to show for it, the team prepares to defend its crown.
Much of Kingwood’s dominance will continue to come from dual-threat junior Hunter Quentel. Recently committed to Oklahoma State, the right-hander went 18–3 last season in the circle and earned 6A Division II State MVP and District 23-6A Pitcher of the Year honors. While the lineup will feature some new combinations, it promises to be just as imposing.
When she’s not sharing the mound with Quentel, Houston signee Frei Pizarro (Sr. RHP/3B) remains a threat at the plate. The same can be said for last season’s 23-6A Defensive Player of the Year and All-Tournament selection Kendall Yates (Jr. 1B/RHP) and senior Lyndsie Gilman (Trinity Valley). Sophomore Samantha Trzecki takes over behind the plate following the graduation of 23-6A MVP Mia Gagliardi (Virginia Tech), while senior Kayla Macicek (Galveston College) patrols the outfield.
Third-year head coach Christa Williams-Yates, a former U.S. Olympian, is supported by KHS alum Jourdyn Campbell (Texas A&M, Louisiana) and Liberty standout Baylee Chandler (Houston Baptist, Texas Lutheran).
Given the talent across the roster and a proven coaching staff, there’s little debate Kingwood enters the season as one of the most well-rounded units in Texas—one that will be hard to beat.
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Katy Sr. C Maddie Smith (NC State signee)Farrah Sheeren (VYPE/Phlox Photography)





























