By Ken Hansard
Coming off a standout 26-4 season, the Pittsburg Purple Dragons softball team enters this season with high expectations under head coach Chanc Gomez. After finishing 13-1 to place first in SEK Conference play, the Dragons advanced deep into the postseason before falling in the state semifinals to eventual champion St. Thomas Aquinas.
Despite key losses in Megan Johnson and Heather Mowdy, Pittsburg returns a strong core of experienced seniors. Brette Pasteur, a two-year starter, headlines the group after earning First Team All-State and First Team All-Conference honors while leading the state in home runs and ranking among the top hitters in multiple offensive categories. Breck Slaughter, also a senior and two-year starter, adds another powerful presence with Second Team All-State and First Team All-Conference recognition. Emily Shriver, a First Team All-Conference performer, rounds out a talented trio expected to lead the way.
“I expect us to play hard every time we step out on the field and to play with confidence, no matter who we face,” Gomez said. “If we do that, we should be back at the state tournament.”
The Dragons will be tested by a competitive schedule that includes conference rival Fort Scott and strong non-conference opponents such as Springdale Har-Ber, Farmington, and Blue Valley West. Each presents unique challenges that should prepare Pittsburg for postseason play.
For Gomez, success goes beyond talent. “We try to foster a great team culture and play hard for each other,” he said. “Don’t play to be perfect—play to be your best.”
With a 1-0 start to the season, Gomez remains confident. “It’s early, and we have things to clean up, but we’ll be just fine.”Top of FormBottom of Form
