After helping lead the Oktaha Tigers to the Class 2A state semifinals last year, Tiger senior pitcher Madison Capps is looking to take another step to the throne room in fast pitch softball this year. “I’ve always been a pitcher ever since I started in softball after watching my brothers play baseball growing up,” said Capps an Oktaha native who is also involved in student council, National Honor Society and FCA. Her coach, Kia Holmes, calls her an invaluable piece in Oktaha’s aspirations for this year. “I’ve always known she would be a good pitcher, but something really clicked for her last year. She put in a lot of work, added some pitches like a drop ball and changeup, and has really taken her pitching to another level this year. She is the type of pitcher that relies more on spin and location than speed to be an effective pitcher. When all of her pitches are working, she’s really tough to beat.” Madison doesn’t really have any special game stats that she considers highlights but looks more at significant wins. “A highlight for me was when we beat Silo last year and this year when we beat Caddo, the defending Class A state champs,” said Capps, who mentions former OU pitcher Paige Parker as one of her role models. And speaking of colleges, Madison’s success has several colleges including Northern, Connors, Carl Albert plus Kansas schools Labette and Neosho seeking her services for next year. A quiet leader by example, coach Holmes says that style works well for her. “She’s quiet but is loved by all the girls. It’s been really fun to watch her transform into what I consider to be one of the best pitchers in the state and as a former catcher myself, it’s fun to call pitches for her games. She makes me look better than I am,” Holmes laughed. At 27-4 in late September and with a regional title under their belt, the Tigers looked poised to achieve their ultimate goal this year and Madison Capps has been a big part of that.
