Dale High School’s varsity softball team has the look of a contender again after a standout 2025 season that ended just short of expectations. The Lady Pirates finished 35-4 last year, but a first-round playoff loss to Howe halted what had been one of the strongest campaigns in recent program history.
That early exit has become a driving force for a group that returns talent across the field and remains firmly in the mix among the best teams in Class 2A. Dale enters the new season ranked inside the top five in the classification, a nod to both its recent success and the depth of its current roster.
Behind the plate, senior catcher and utility player Kinley Patten provides stability, versatility and experience. Patten’s ability to handle the pitching staff, slide into different defensive spots and contribute offensively gives Dale options when matchups tighten late in games. In the heart of the lineup, multi-sport standout Khloe Jones anchors the offense as an excellent hitter, bringing power and consistency to a batting order that expects to pressure opposing pitchers every night.
Around the infield, Holland Herring’s ability to play multiple positions helps solidify Dale defensively. Her adaptability allows the Lady Pirates to adjust to injuries, changes in personnel or tactical shifts while maintaining a reliable presence on the dirt. The roster is rounded out by key contributors such as Brooke Sheline and Max Motley, who add depth and give Dale additional options both in the field and at the plate.
After the disappointment of last year’s early playoff exit, the Lady Pirates carry a clear sense of unfinished business into the season. With a proven record, a top-five ranking and a lineup built around experienced playmakers, Dale will once again be aiming to challenge the best in Class 2A and extend its season deeper into the postseason.
