McLoud High School’s varsity softball team enters the new fastpitch season with experience, depth and a clear goal of returning to the state stage for the first time in more than two decades. Head coach Garrett Hannah is in his second season leading the Lady Redskins after a 25-10 campaign in 2025, and he said the group’s veteran core gives them a strong foundation for another postseason push. “This team returns all but one starter from last year,” Hannah said. “We will have a mixture of all classes contributing to this group. Six seniors will lead this group and hope to get back to the fastpitch state tournament for the first time since 2002.”
In the circle and at the plate, senior pitcher Ella Smith is expected to set the tone. Hannah said Smith was a key piece of last year’s success, posting a 1.63 earned run average while hitting .366, and her two-way impact remains central to McLoud’s plans. “She will be coming off of an injury but is determined to level up for her senior year and lead this team to the state tournament,” Hannah said. Smith has committed to continue her career at Southwestern Christian University in Bethany, giving the Lady Redskins a college-bound leader at the top of the roster.
McLoud’s athleticism and versatility are boosted by sophomore outfielder Kayleigh Smith, who expanded her role during the spring season. “Kayleigh stepped up into a larger role this spring versus last fall,” Hannah said. “Last fall she came on late and ended up being a huge part for us defensively and on the bases. She will look to take over in center field this fall as a sophomore. Kayleigh can slap and hit from the right side so she will be a great tool for this team.”
Behind the plate, junior catcher and designated hitter Macen Fixico is another key returning contributor. “Macen stepped into a larger role right out of the gate last fall,” Hannah said. “She split time at catcher and DH’d a lot of the year. Macen could contribute to the outfield some next fall and still split some time at catcher. She is a phenomenal athlete.” With senior leadership, multi-position depth and a strong track record, McLoud expects to contend again and chase a long-awaited trip back to the fastpitch state tournament.
