Lady Cubs set aggressive goals under new coach

By  Jared Lankford Special to the Monett Monthly

While it may be her first season as a head coach, the rich history of Monett softball flows through the veins of Kaesha George.

George takes over a program that finished 17-10 last season and has a trio of senior leaders. Using that double blessing, the Lady Cubs’ skipper has high expectations for Monett this season.

“A big goal for our team is 20 wins,” George said. “I think with the talent and work ethic we have this season, hitting that 20-win mark is a realistic, yet motivating goal. Alongside that, we are going to focus on building a stronger team chemistry and making a deeper run in the postseason.”

The Lady Cubs return a trio of senior leaders in Kilee Wilson, Mikaela Guerra and Taylor Bryan.

“I expect them to be vocal leaders on and off the field, set the tone, and be positive role models,” George said. “They play a huge role in shaping the culture of our program, and I’m confident they will embrace that responsibility.”

Wilson is described by her coach as a strong pitcher and reliable leader on the field.

“Kilee brings consistency and competitiveness every time she steps in the circle,” George said. “She is also aggressive at the plate and puts pressure on the defense. Her ability to impact the game on both sides makes her a key returner for us.”

Emma Velten returns to anchor the catching duties for the Lady Cubs.

“Emma is a strong defensive catcher who controls the game with her quick decision-making and strong arm,” George said. ”Offensively, she is a problem for the defense with her speed and hot bat.”

Brilynn Doss returns to third base for Monett and showed skill at the hot corner last season, according to her coach.

“She reads situations well at third and has been vocal on the field this summer,” George said. “She has a consistent bat that helps keep our offense moving.”

Guerra will anchor an outfield position for the Lady Cubs.

“Mikaela will continue to help us in the outfield, with her quickness and good reads on the ball,” George said. “Her speed allows her to cover a lot of ground, and she consistently makes smart plays that prevent extra bases. Offensively, she brings energy and is always ready to contribute when called upon.”

Lexy Sullivan will also find a role in the Monett outfield.

“She is a vocal leader for us out in centerfield and has a lot of experience at that position,” George said. “At the plate, Lexy brings a lot of power and has the ability to change the game with one swing. Her combination of leadership and offensive spark makes her a key contributor on both sides of the ball.”

Kamilla Rodriguez has solidified her starting spot at first base this season.

“She has a solid glove and good footwork, making her a key part of our defensive alignment,” George said. “Offensively, Kamilla has a strong swing and consistently delivers quality at-bats, helping to drive in runs and keep the offense moving.”

The Lady Cubs will work a trio of newcomers into their starting lineup: Gianna Cavnar. Camila Robles and Naomi Orellana.

“I have been really impressed with the newcomers this summer,” George said. “I hope they contribute by being ready to step in wherever they’re needed and bring a competitive energy every day.”

As George has worked with her team this summer, she sees great potential and areas for growth.

“Currently, our team is most proficient defensively,” she said. “We will continue to take pride in our communication, effort, and ability to stay disciplined. I would really like to see our team be more aggressive offensively—both at the plate and on the base paths. We have the potential to be a strong

offensive team, but we need to build more confidence in our swings and take advantage of opportunities to pressure defenses.”

George sees Cassville as the team’s main rival and would like to see a packed stadium, but the schedule as a whole will be a challenge.

“Our schedule is going to challenge us, especially that stretch from September 12-19,” she said. “We have tournaments back-to-back weekends with games in between. This will be a good opportunity for me to see some different lineup combinations and how our team responds to adversity and quick turnarounds.”

Monett opens the season at home with Marshfield on Sept. 2. The first of two Cassville matchups will be at home on Sept. 16.