By John Henson
Sports Writer

Kristan Saylor grew up with Bell County softball, beginning her career as a fifth grader on the high school squad in the days when there was no middle school team. After seven years coaching on the middle school level, she moved up to the high school squad as assistant last year under David Teague. She’s now the head coach and looking forward to the challenges ahead.
“Our team is young and talented. We have all the right tools to have a great season,” she said. “As long as the girls stay focused on our mission and task at hand, we will continue to improve and win games. I’m happy with the progress of our program that David Teague started, and I’m hoping to build on that in the future.”
Saylor takes over a young squad that features only one senior and is coming off a 10-19 season that included a first-round loss to Harlan County in the 52nd District Tournament.
Jayda Boateng was the Lady Cats’ top hitter a year ago as an eighth grader and is expected to play a big role again at shortstop. She hit .495 last season with 48 runs scored and 35 RBI.
“She is a standout athlete who has the potential to make a big difference for us,” Saylor said. “She is young but very talented and has a high IQ for the sport. She will continue to grow as a student-athlete, and we look forward to watching her become one of the top players in our region. I’m excited for what her future holds. “
Kenley Foster, a junior first baseman, hit .419 a year ago with 31 hits and 19 RBI.
“She is our primary first baseman, but she is very versatile and can play any position we need,” Saylor said. “She steps up and does whatever is needed for the team. She has a hot bat that, and we’re excited to see what she can achieve this season.”
Addison Maiden, a junior, returns to anchor the outfield in center after hitting .349 last season with 30 hits, 17 RBI, 29 runs and 21 steals in 21 attempts.
“She is a returning junior outfielder who has taken on the role of being a leader and center fielder. She adds speed and versatility to the roster and is continuing to get more confident in her abilities on offense and defense,” Saylor said. “She is definitely someone to keep an eye on. Her future is bright.”
Alexus Lawson, the team’s only senior, returns behind the plate after hitting .286 last season with 22 hits and 16 RBI.
“She has taken the leadership role and stepped up for the team,” Saylor said. “She is the voice and the positive attitude we need to get this young team headed in the right direction.”
Reaghan Moyers, a junior, takes over at third base after transferring from Middlesboro. She hit .305 last season with 25 hits and 25 RBI.
“We’ve added Reaghan this year as a seasoned player who transferred in with a good bat and positive attitude,” Saylor said. “She is willing to play whereever we need her and is a great kid.”
Though only a seventh grader, Tristan Saylor has moved up to the high school team to take over at second base.
“We have brought up a talented seventh grader to start at second base,” Saylor said. “She brings a ton of speed and a strong bat. She will help make our infield stronger.”
Jaelynn Reeder, a sophomore, is the favorite to start in right field with freshman Kyleigh Allen in right. Both saw limited varsity action last season.
“Jaelynn is a new player to the game but is a good outfielder and a quick leaner who is gaining more confidence daily,” Saylor said. “Kyleigh is a freshman who adds a ton of speed and a good bat to our roster.”
Emily Rose is also a potential starter in the outfield.
“She has a good bat and is an outfielder with potential to help our team this year,” Saylor said.
Freshmen Madelynn Fuson, Reagan Day and Raelee Partin will also compete for starting spots.
“They are all freshman and potential starters who have big bats. We’re excited to watch them grow throughout the season,” Saylor said.
Adyson Scott, a sophomore left-hander, is back in the circle after posting 7-14 record last year with a 4.75 earned run average and 121 strikeouts in 109 innings.
“She has worked all off season and came back this year with more speed and new pitches in her arsenal,” Saylor said. “We are happy with her progress and ready to see her continue to get better and make a difference for us.”
Laryssa Matthews, a freshman, will provide pitching depth.
“She is an incoming freshman pitcher who has taken the offseason to work and improve her game. She continues to get better every day,” Saylor said. “The lefty-righty pitching duo will be fun to watch this season.”
Last year’s district race was very balanced, and Saylor expects a similar scenario in 2025.
“I think our district will be very competitive,” she said, “and is loaded with tons of talent on each team.”