After going on an incredible run to Columbus last season, the Lady Indians are hungry to do more of the same. Gone are eight seniors including several key players, but slugger Carley Funderburke and Nyleigh Hutto remain to lead 1st-year coach Savannah Canady’s lineup.

PRESEASON INFO

2024 Record: 24-8; State Elite 8
Head Coach: Savannah Canady (1st Season)
Returning Starters: 5
Key Departures: Carson Stowe, Riley Walker, Hallee Shirley
“To be honest, all eight players that departed were key departures,” says Canady. “All eight seniors were starters in a variety of places on the field, had record breaking seasons for SCHS, and a run into Columbus. This group was collectively a powerhouse.”
Key Players: Nyleigh Hutto, Carley Funderburke, Elly Hicks, Madayson Wilson
“Some returning players that we foresee being great leaders and really impacting the team are Nyleigh Hutto (SR) – she led the team for a while last season in different aspects of hitting and fielding,” says Canady. “Another key player returning is Carley Funderburke (JR). She broke the school’s homerun record in her two seasons so far and we think she will be equally powerful going into this season both batting
and behind the plate. Along with this we additionally have key pitchers returning: Elly Hicks (SR) and Madyson Wilson (JR). This freshmen class as a whole will be impactful, but some of the freshmen that we see being big playmakers are Alana Thurmond, Emma-Kate Powell, Karlie Brady, and Kasey Wallace.”
Strengths: “Our strengths this year are that we not only have key returning players that are also leaders on the field, but we have an outstanding group of players that are entering the program as freshmen,” adds Canady. “Another strength for us going into this season is we also have a pitching staff that is diverse in pitches; which ultimately makes hitting against us difficult. Not only on the field but off of the field as well, the chemistry of this year’s team is unmatched. They are competitive, strong in their faith, and are players that love the game of softball.”

“The expectation and goal for our 2025 season is obviously Columbus,” states Canady. “That is every high school’s goal. Outside of this our goal is to continue to be a competitive team for Stephens County led by our faith, strong defense, and how we show up mentally and physically both on and off the field. Success for this season means building a culture of hard work, trust, and pride in the jersey we wear. If we can bring all of
this together, the scoreboard win is an added bonus.”