POTEAU PIRATES

Coach: RYAN DILL

32-8

OUTLOOK

After getting a taste of the excitement of playing in the state tournament, Poteau is zeroed in on a repeat performance in 2024. Despite the loss of four seniors including two All-Staters, head coach Ryan Dill believes the Pirates lineup has the talent to battle their way back to the final eight team field in Class 4A. “Our expectations remain the same-to be an athletic, aggressive young team that plays with intensity,” explained Dill while pointing to the experience of this year’s roster that includes only two seniors. VYPE Top 100 nominee Emma Hackler (P/OF, Jr.) returns to the circle with the confidence of Dill to control opposing hitters. “She’s a lefty and is our ACE that has proven her skills the past two seasons,” said the Pirates skipper. “Emma also gives us a big left handed stick at the plate who can deliver big time production.” The veteran leadership of Briley Bowman (3B/1B/P, Sr.) is another plus with her glove while playing third or first base as well as picking up innings in the circle. “Briley is a three year starter and understands her role,” said Dill. “She hit .359 last season with six doubles and 3 home runs last year.” Another of playmakers for the Pirates will be shortstop Emma Walker (SS/C, So.) who earned “Rookie of the Year” honors as well as being one of the Pirates leading hitters.

The Pirates coach likes the defensive skills of outfielder Maggie Wheat (OF, Sr.) who hit .340 from the middle of the order and according to the Dill is the best outfield arm capable of keeping opposing runners from taking an extra bag.

Other players that will play key roles in this year’s win-loss results include Keira Cox (1B/P, Jr.), Abby Martin (OF, Jr.), Gracie Spradley (OF/3B, Jr.), Kennedy Williams (3B/P, So.), Kenzie Williams (C/OF, So.), Jerra Sommers (2B/OF, So.), Kinlee Taylor (1B/P, So.), Lextyn Soehlman (OF, So.), Brystal Hammons (3B/C/OF, So.) and Mamie Bear (OF, Fr.). The season opens August 12 with a road trip to Red Oak and includes the always tough LeFlore County tournament, which the Pirates won last year.

“These girls understand what’s needed to win everyday,” said Dill, “and when all the pieces to the puzzle fit together, they’re a tough group to beat.”