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VYPE Coaches Corner: Lake Creek Softball Coach Candyce Carter -- 5A-D2 State Final Preview
It shouldn't come as a surprise that the Lake Creek Softball program has found itself back at the state's most prestigious stage, considering the fact that they went back-to-back between 2022 and 2023.
Despite that, this is a different team than the one in years past.
The likes of Ava Brown (Florida), Maddie McKee (LSU), Kalee Rochinski (UTSA), Carmen Uribe (Central Arkansas), Alyson Higginbotham (Tarleton State), and others have since advanced their careers to the collegiate level -- leaving the dynasty in the hands of second-year head coach Candyce Carter.
Suffice it to say, the Lions are still as formidable as ever.
Boasting the only undefeated record (36-0) in all of Texas high school softball, Lake Creek has its eye on State Championship No. 3, with the only obstacle left being Hallsville.
The two will be facing off this Friday (4:00 PM) at Red & Charline McCombs Field in Austin, TX, with heavy implications in the balance.
VYPE's Matthew Ogle caught up with Lake Creek HC Candyce Carter, discussing the team's tremendous run and more.
Check out the interview below!
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Can Lake Creek claim State Title No. 3 and complete their perfect season?
THE FINAL INNINGS: 2025 UIL State Softball Preview -- Lake Creek v. Hallsville (5A-D2)
A new chapter in UIL Softball will be written Friday afternoon at Red & Charline McCombs Field in Austin, as Lake Creek and Hallsville square off for the 5A-Division II title, with the first pitch being set for 4:00 PM.
For Lake Creek, it’s no secret that this trip to the State Final is familiar territory.
The undefeated Lions (36-0) have advanced to the championship game for the third time in four years, looking to claim their third consecutive title after dominant performances in 2022 and 2023.
But this year's squad looks different.
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Gone are the marquee names from the Lions' recent dynasty—Ava Brown (Florida), Maddie McKee (LSU), and Kalee Rochinski (UTSA)—who led Lake Creek through back-to-back title runs. In their place, a new wave of talent has stepped up and carried the torch.
Junior pitcher Sara Wiggins, a Wichita State-commit, has emerged as one of the premier arms in Texas and a cornerstone of Lake Creek’s flawless season. Senior Chesney Davis (Texas State), who contributes both in the circle and at the plate, offers versatility and power.
The lineup remains dangerous with juniors Madalyn Davis (North Carolina) and Gracee Brewer (McNeese State), as well as seniors Kloie Futch and Maggie Hayward (Hillsdale College), all bringing postseason experience and production.
Lake Creek most recently swept Rouse in the state semifinals, winning 4-3 and 8-4, continuing their unblemished run.
On the other side, Hallsville (36-5-1) enters the final with plenty of motivation and momentum. The Bobcats edged Grapevine 3-2 in a decisive Game 3 last weekend to punch their ticket to Austin.
While this is Hallsville’s first appearance in the championship since 2001, the program is no stranger to the state stage, having last made the tournament in 2021.
Led by head coach Kayla Whatley, Hallsville is anchored by senior right-hander Lindsey Dubberly, a Southeastern Oklahoma State-signee who has delivered all season.
Senior outfielder Hope Miles brings leadership and consistency, while young stars like sophomore Miller Goswick and freshman Ella Baird (RHP/UTL) have played key roles throughout the postseason run.
With a dynasty on one side and a program chasing its first title in over two decades on the other, Friday’s final promises to be a compelling clash of experience, talent, and hunger.