2025 Season Recap

Lady Hawks Show Grit and Growth in 2024–25 Season, Return to Postseason

The Howard College Lady Hawks softball team wrapped up their 2024–25 campaign with a postseason appearance and a season full of determination, development, and standout individual efforts. Under the guidance of Head Coach Ashley Lopez and Assistant Coach Kirsten Martinez, the Lady Hawks finished 16-31 overall and 11-13 in WJCAC play, fighting their way into the Region V Tournament in Waco, Texas.

Despite being eliminated after two hard-fought games, the Lady Hawks earned their place in the playoffs thanks to strong late-season play and steady leadership. Their offensive production featured 253 runs, 36 home runs, and a team batting average of .277, along with an aggressive approach on the basepaths that resulted in 82 stolen bases.

The team's offensive engine was powered by freshman Elena Mendez, who led the team with a .371 batting average, .458 on-base percentage, and .556 slugging percentage, while also contributing 4 home runs, 21 RBIs, and 21 stolen bases. Her stellar all-around performance earned her All-Conference Honorable Mention honors at the infield position.

Sophomore Sadie Ryan made the most of her 20 games, slugging .729 with a .396 average, 4 home runs, and 18 RBIs — one of the most efficient hitters on the roster. Fellow sophomore Ashley McMahon provided speed and consistency in the outfield, batting .316 with 12 stolen bases and earning All-Conference Honorable Mention recognition.

Also earning All-Conference Honorable Mention was sophomore Beatrice Nakae, who brought power to the lineup with 6 home runs and 13 stolen bases, despite a tough season average. Her ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball was a steady presence in the outfield.

The Lady Hawks' pitching staff was anchored by freshman Kaela Martinez, who was named a First Team All-Conference Pitcher. Her presence in the circle gave the team opportunities to compete every time she took the mound.

Other notable contributors included freshman Eva O'Loughlan, who slugged .527 with 7 home runs, and sophomore Caylee Berg, who added 25 RBIs and 4 home runs of her own. Freshman Aryah Barrera (.284 AVG, 14 RBIs) and sophomore Morgan Crandall (10 doubles, 16 RBIs) were also key pieces of the lineup.

While the season ended earlier than hoped, the Lady Hawks showed flashes of their potential and laid the groundwork for future success. With young talent emerging and experienced leadership returning, Howard College softball has a solid foundation to build on heading into the 2025–26 season.