With only one player not returning to the 2025 lineup, the Iola Mustangs’ chances look promising. Coach Chris Weide says the softball team’s deep bench and talented underclassmen bode well for a breakout season.

“This is my eighth year, and this is the first time I’ve had this much talent,” Weide said. “In a normal year, we’d have four or five girls that are real solid. I think this is a special group.”

Last season’s bitter ending may have something to do with their motivation. The girls exited the postseason in a 4-2 loss to Bluestem in the playoffs.

Multiple-time Pioneer League honors recipient senior Elza Clift will lead the Mustangs on the mound and in the batter’s box as lead-off hitter. Reese Curry, a three-time All-Pioneer League honoree, will serve as catcher.

An up-and-comer, and recent state wrestling qualifier, is Zoie Hesse, who Weide said has the potential to be the best hitter in the history of IHS. Weide also has high hopes for sophomore Brooklyn Holloway, who he credits for her athleticism and aggressiveness at center field.

“Kyndal Bycroft and Kaysin Cruisinbery will do some stuff for us in the field and at the plate,” Weide said. “Harper Desmarteau, she’s going to play at Allen next year, will probably play a little center field, but she may also be catching and playing third base just to fill some spots.

“We’ve got nine seniors in the group, and seven of those started last year. We’ve already seen the leadership qualities come out of them,” Weide said. “We also have eight freshmen coming in, which is a really good group. There is some talent there and also a couple of girls who might push for some varsity playing time. Even though we have all of the starters back, we have enough girls coming up who know they have to work every day to keep their spot.”