The Gibault Catholic High School softball program is trending in a positive direction under second-year head coach Maggie Bollone. 

While the team did lose all-state senior Ashley Murphy to graduation, several key players return to lead the Hawks in 2026 after a 9-14 showing last spring.

Leading the way is junior infielder/pitcher Lauren Lanham. She was named all-state last season after hitting .412 with 34 runs scored.

Also returning is senior Hope Chambers, who pitches and plays third base. She hit .381 with 19 RBIs in 2025.

Another returning senior is shortstop/catcher Karina Jerkatis, who hit .404 with 20 runs last spring.

Other seniors on the diamond again for the Hawks are Sophie Winkeler, Chloe Lancaster and Claire Kessler. 

Winkeler, who scored 17 runs last season, has shown promise at the plate and in the pitching circle already this spring. 

Another returning junior is Molly Steibel, who plays second base and outfield.

Returning sophomores are Kennedy Cooper (shortstop, pitcher), Claire Schuchardt (outfield, catcher) and Kylie Edwin (outfielder, third base, catcher).

Newcomers expected to step up into important roles for Gibault softball this spring include freshmen Grace Kessler and Addie Riebeling, plus sophomore Abby Kunkelmann.

“(We’re) lacking depth in a few positions, but newcomer Grace is learning a new position for her at first base to help fill that gap,” Bollone said.

The head coach added that Riebeling and Kunkelmann “bring speed to the bases.”

Bollone said her team is gelling as a unit through hard work and dedication to the sport.

“It’s a good group of girls who put their heart and soul into the game,” she said. “They care about each other, which creates a tight bond for a team.”

Bollone said her team sets individual and team goals at the start of every season, with a check-in at midseason. 

“The goal-setting conversation is a big part because it allows for feedback to us coaches as well,” she said. “It is constantly stressed to them that the line of communication needs to be open and flowing.”

Bollone said this year’s squad has developed a “lofty list” of team goals. 

“They set the bar high, and I have no doubt they will use every ounce to reach them,” she said. “They have goals of everything from team building activities to a team batting average to winning regionals. These young ladies can do anything they put their mind to. They are more determined than ever.”

In addition to a rejuvenation for Gibault softball as a whole, Bollone said the school’s softball field has undergone a renovation that includes a permanent fence with a warning track, a flagpole in centerfield, new dirt and a fresh coat of paint on the dugouts.