KEYS COUGARS SOFTBALL READY TO PROWL FOR SUCCESS

Learning from their opportunities with a young team last season who battled to produce a 17-14 record, the Keys Lady Cougars are eager to prove to their opponents they’ve got what it takes to win in 2025. Head coach Nick Zodrow likes what he sees with this year’s lineup.  “We’ve definitely got high expectations with this year’s group that continues to put in the time to sharpen their skills,” said the 10^th year coach. “It’s a good combination of individual skills and team chemistry that’s creating a reason for excitement.”  The all around abilities of sophomore shortstop Paizlee Zodrow makes the most of every opportunity at the plate and with her glove. “Paizlee plays the shortstop position at a very high level and takes away a large number of hits from the opposition,” said the Keys coach. “She bats in the lead off position where she hit .500+ last season as a freshman and looks to improve this season on her overall game. From stealing bases, leadership, offense and defense she controls the game on multiple levels.” The coach’s older daughter Payton also makes a difference with her “whatever it takes approach style of play evidenced by her power at the plate where she hit 14 doubles, two triples and six home runs last year as a sophomore. “She’s like a Swiss army knife, a team leader who plays the game hard,” said the elder Zodrow.  The Cougars will employ Payton to add strength to the pitching efforts where Maya Charboneau returns for her junior campaign. “Maya is a strike thrower who pitches to our team strength which will be our overall team defense,” replied the coach. Junior first baseman Emmalynn Warren returns to the Keys infield with added pop in her bat and security with the glove along with senior Paige Foreman who can solidify the outfield defense as well as hit with exceptional power. The Lady Cougars have an added bonus thanks to a transfer portal addition, Adryen Coker, a junior, who the coach defines as an elite corner infielder who can hit for a high level average. “I really like the combination of talent and desire of this year’s team. They just find a way to win in all aspects of the game,” said Zodrow.