“In Class 6A softball…there’s no place to hide…you have to be at your best everyday.”
The words of head coach Mark Dicus are echoed by every coach in the state’s largest class and as the Roughers enter the 2025 campaign, there’s a chip on the shoulder of the Lady Roughers to prove they have what it takes to be among the state’s best by the end of the season.
“Even though we’re still a young team, our overall athleticism is solid top to bottom,” said Dicus who enters his fifth year at Muskogee. “Finally we have some depth that will give us a boost.”
Muskogee returns seven proven starters to this year’s lineup card that provide plenty of individual ability and all who play with a spirit of team unity.
Gabbi Davis enters her fourth season in the starting lineup at third base; a player Dicus says displays her love for the game in practice as well as in games.
“She’s a high level player whose confidence is evident in how she approaches each situation that provides leadership for our team and coaches,” said the Muskogee mentor. “Gabbi has plenty of pop when she swings the bat and is solid with her defense on the corner.”
The Roughers have experience in the pitching circle as junior Kyra Rowland returns as the ace of the staff joined by sophomores Charlesia Normore and JaKeis Gandy as Dicus manages innings this fall.
“Kyra has two years experience in the circle which allows her to maintain composure in the crunch,” said Dicus. “She has the confidence to locate her throws and vary three pitches to keep opposing hitters off balance.
After starting six freshmen last year, Dicus is quick to point out the skills of the other returning starters including Ke’Lashia Smith behind the plate.
“Smitty started every game last year at catcher. She can also play a multitude of positions and is a big offensive threat with the bat in her hands.”
Normore, last year’s leading hitter for average, will move from second base to shortstop to allow the Muskogee coaches to gain the glove and talents of freshman Tedera Thomas at second base. Gandy will anchor play at first base while Cailee Royse and Ayriess Jordan will solidify the outfield for a second season.
Adding to the depth of this year’s roster will be the return of sisters Terra and Tilha Williams. The older of the two, Terra, a senior, will see time in centerfield or at second base while Tilha, a sophomore, will play innings on the dirt or the outfield.
“This group has worked hard to raise the bar of expectations that I think will turn into successful results,” said Dicus. “Our district is top loaded with some of the best in Oklahoma. With a little good fortune and by staying healthy, I think we’ve got a chance to prove we can win against the top team this year.”
Photo courtesy Gena Maxwell Photography
