VINITA HORNETS
Coach: JIM ZICKEFOOSE
2024 Record: 11-19
With a mix of experienced seniors and a talented sophomore class, the Vinita Lady Hornets enter the 2025 season with optimism and a renewed sense of purpose. Head coach Jim Zickefoose, now in his 24th year at the helm, sees plenty of reasons to be excited.
“With a lot of returning starters that were mostly freshmen last year and a solid group of seniors, we are very optimistic about the upcoming 2025 season,” said Zickefoose.
Leading the charge for the Hornets is senior Hallie Todd, a four-year starter known for her versatility and leadership. “Hallie can play multiple positions. She has a great passion for the game and is very coachable,” said Zickefoose. “She’s a great young lady and a big part of what we’re doing.”
Vinita’s foundation is bolstered by two standout sophomores who made their presence felt as freshmen. C.C. Carter and Rylee Brown return as major offensive threats. “Both of these players really performed at a high level as freshmen last year, and I expect nothing but great things from these two this year,” said Zickefoose. “C.C. Carter led the team in hitting with a .377 average, and Rylee Brown was close behind at .363.”
Leadership and maturity are just as important as on-field performance, and coach Zickefoose is proud of the character his team brings. Jolee Doggett and Jaidyn Bartley are prime examples of that. “Jolee started as a freshman last year and improved dramatically. Jaidyn played a lot as an underclassman and grew in confidence over time,” Zickefoose said. “Both of these young ladies have great character.”
With depth in the lineup, key returning experience, and an undercurrent of youthful talent, Vinita is aiming for a breakthrough season. The Hornets know their schedule will test them, but coach Zickefoose believes the team is better prepared this time around.
“We’ve got a group that knows what it takes now,” he said. “They’ve put in the work, and if they continue to grow together, we can make a strong run this fall.”
