2021 marks a new era for Dawson County softball, as long-time coach Jimmy Pruett is out and in steps Justin Rickett. The team struggled to find much consistency last year, and lose a couple of big-time program players, such as BLITZ Hall of Famer Bella Henson. Still, this is a real chance for the Lady Tigers to get a fresh makeover and try to rebuild into a powerhouse program.

Head Coach: Justin Rickett, 1st Season
2020 Record: 6-12; No Playoffs

“We are hoping to compete for a spot in the state tournament,” says Rickett. Simply put, that’s the new bar.

Personnel

Key Departures: Bella Henson

Key Returning Players: Rylie Erickson, Olivia Martinez, Ainsley Allen, Emily Jordan, Annslee Kirby, Gracie Vaughan,  Anna Glover, CeCe Gonzalez, Reese Moore, Emily Kurtz, Lauren Kurtz, Layne Bailey

Losing Bella Henson is enormous. You probably can’t replace that straight up right now, but rather in aggregate. Olivia Martinez is one of the main leaders this team will need to continue to play at a high level and elevate those around her.

Strengths & Areas of Focus

Strengths: “We are athletic and have been working very hard,” says Rickett. “We also have some strong arms in the circle with some pop at the plate.”

Focusing On: “With a new coach a lot of focus is going to be on learning about each other and learning the new system,” says Rickett