Softball Swings into New Season: 2025 Preview
Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Gabriel Delvalle.
Team Goals
The Bluefield University softball team is gearing up to take to the field for the upcoming 2025 season. Led by second-year head coach Maggie White, the Rams are looking to complete the season with a winning percentage of .500 while qualifying for the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) Tournament.
Coach White believes that if her squad learns to control what is within their power and take care of the small things, their season goals will take care of themselves.
Key Returning and New Players
Rams starting pitcher Hallie Cox returns to the mound with help from fellow senior Ali Glover. The duo combined for a total of 218 innings pitched last season. Cox talked about her goals for her last year on the mound.
“We are trying to be competitive and staying that way throughout the season,” Cox said. “To do this, we have to work hard at practice and always give 110 percent.”
The Rams have also added Izzy Smith, a Bluefield native, who will have a significant impact on the strength of the pitching staff. Lexie McDuffie, a pitcher and utility player who is also returning, will add depth with increased innings on the mound.
This senior-loaded team will bring a strong leadership presence on the field. Chara Wooten, Mackenzie Franklin, Kirby Buchanan, Mouse Blankenship, and Jenna Atwell are all expected to bring many innings of experience, providing a strong foundation for the Rams.
In addition to a large upperclass group, Coach White is leaving the door open to the freshmen class to make an early impact this season. Lauren Jackson and Olivia Bailey had a strong fall season, working well together in the middle infield. The versatility of Izzy Smith, Chloe Dillow, and Maddy Wood will assist the Rams behind the plate and in the infield. Incoming outfielders will include Alondra Reeves, Delana Loflin, and Cora Thorton.
Looking Forward
Coach White is most excited to see how her new players blend with those who have experience playing Rams softball.
“The returning players have grown tremendously over the past year and a half, and they are hungry,” Coach White said. “We have a great collection of personalities and talent, and they seem to work well together so far this season.”
Senior Chara Wooten is looking forward to the season and competing with her teammates one more year.
“Having confidence within each other and trusting that whoever is beside you can get the job done is a huge goal,” Wooten said.
Coach White thinks the future of BU softball is bright as the program has worked tirelessly recruiting strong softball players who are also quality people. The culture is continuing to grow and have an impact on the Bluefield community.
The Rams take the field for the first time this season against Alice Lloyd College at Graham Recreational Park on February 15, 2025. The first pitch will be at 1 p.m. Check out the full Lady Rams softball schedule at bcrams.com.