Local softball standouts shine with all-district honors

Oct. 27—In a triumphant display of local softball talent, several Rogers County athletes earned recognition in their respective all-district awards.

Five Claremore players clinched coveted spots on the 5A-3 All-District team, showcasing their prowess in the 2023 season.

The Lady Zebras finished third in District 5A-3 with a commendable overall record of 17-16. The spotlight shines on Jazmine Cookson, a stellar pitcher who undoubtedly played a pivotal role in the team's success. Halle Bucktrot, gracing the shortstop position with her skills, also earned her place among the district's finest.

Formidable third baseman Grace Weaver made the list as well, and outfielder Addison Reavis and Aubrey Pilgrim, a versatile utility player, completed the quintet of Claremore stars to receive this prestigious recognition.

The accolades don't stop there. Three more Lady Zebras — Emoree Woody, Amaeli Foster and Riley Fay — garnered honorable-mention status for their contributions throughout the season.

Over in District 4A-7, Verdigris soared to victory, clinching the district championship with a commendable overall record of 24-11.

The Lady Cardinals' success led to a total of seven players earning 4A-7 All-District selections.

Grayce Taylor emerged as the Co-Offensive Player of the Year, showcasing her skills on the field. Joining her in this elite group are Rilyn Stringfellow, Presley Tipton, Hannah Sikes, Taelynn Ballinger, Evie Lemery and Reagan Bennett, all contributing their unique talents to Verdigris' triumphant season.

Rhyan Waltonbaugh and Emma Young received well-deserved honorable mentions, adding to the Lady Cardinals' growing list of honors.

In a fitting conclusion to this story, Brian Keith was named Coach of the Year, a testament to his dedication and leadership.

Oologah, Verdigris' fellow competitor in District 4A-7, finished third in the standings with a season record of 19-14.

Jadyn Standeford shared the Co-Offensive Player of the Year title with the Lady Cardinals' Taylor, underscoring her significance in the team's performance. Taylor McKee, catcher extraordinaire, also found a place on the District 4A-7 All-District team.

Brooklyn Jones, known for her ability in the corner, and Kailee Seaba, a versatile utility player, were also named to the prestigious list.

Several Lady Mustangs, including Addison Edmondson, Preslee Moffett, Macey Calico, Kalley Hogue, Mattie Morton and Macy Gorczynski, received honorable mentions, solidifying Oologah's presence among the district's top softball talents.

The accolades didn't end at the district level, for Standeford and McKee received further recognition by earning spots on the All-Region team's second team as a pitcher and a utility player, respectively.

Inola, another participant in District 4A-7, celebrated Lexi Wheeler's inclusion on the all-district squad as a utility player.

Despite a challenging 10-20 season, Wheeler's skills shone brightly. She also received all-region honors as an infielder, a testament to her versatility and talent.

Aubrey Mullen, Megan Thornton and Tobi Unrau were recognized with honorable mentions for their contributions.

Shifting focus to District 3A-6, Sequoyah's Avery Hyde secured her place on the all-district team as a catcher, displaying her skill behind the plate. Molly Sortore earned recognition as well for her play at shortstop, proving to be a formidable defensive force.

Gracie Baldridge and JoJo Stinnett received honorable mentions, highlighting their valuable contributions to the team's efforts throughout the 2023 season.

In a season filled with hard-fought battles and exceptional plays, these local softball players have undoubtedly left an unerasable mark on the district, showcasing their talent, dedication and love for the game.

Their names will undoubtedly be remembered in their respective programs as they continue to inspire the next generation of athletes.