HS Softball: Expectations skyrocket for Independence

Softball

March 10, 2026•1 min read

Newcomers have off-set key losses due to graduation for the Patriots

Under normal circumstances, the loss of a pair of all-state seniors to graduation would send shock waves across a high school softball roster.

The 2026 line-up for Independence is far from normal.

Fortunately for the Patriots, the losses of first-team all-stater Emma Lilly and second-team standout Kassidy Bradbury have been off-set by three new faces in the red, white and blue.

Joining the ladies from Coal City this season are all-state transfers Jenna Joyce and Peyton Raban, along with freshman sensation Payton Boothe.

The talented trio will play alongside first-team all-state catcher Ava Parks, seniors Zoey Bragg, Emma Simpson and Peyton Brehm, as well as junior hurler Kenzie Pierce, creating a formidable roster and pitching staff this season.

Independence will also move back to Class AA this year which includes Bluefield, James Monroe, Liberty, Midland Trail, Mingo Central, River View Summers County, Westside and Wyoming East.

Two teams from the region will advance to the state tournament under the new eight-team format. The championship will played May 28-31 at Little Creek Park in South Charleston.

The Patriots are scheduled to open the season March 19 at home against Liberty.

Independence head coach Ken Adkins talked about the new roster and the upcoming season with high expectations for his team.