By Angela Brunk
At Gardner Edgerton High School, senior shortstop and utility standout Charlee Latteman is entering her final softball season with high expectations and unfinished business. Latteman is energized by the talent and chemistry surrounding this year’s team, believing the group has the potential to make a deep postseason run and compete for a state championship.
Latteman dedicated her offseason to intense preparation. She participated in Gardner Edgerton’s winter training program, spending countless hours in the weight room while running and lifting daily. Beyond school workouts, she trained extensively with her travel team, focusing on position-specific skills to elevate her game even further. This commitment reflects her drive to make the most of her senior season.
While her on-field performance has already reached elite levels, Latteman has placed a strong emphasis on improving her leadership. By working with athletes of different ages throughout the offseason, she gained valuable insight into how to connect with teammates and adapt her leadership style. As a senior, she aims to lead by example and be the best teammate possible.
Her accomplishments speak for themselves. Last season, Latteman posted an outstanding .494 batting average with 38 hits, including 12 doubles, 3 triples, and 13 home runs. She set school records in home runs and slugging percentage (1.234), earning Sunflower League Player of the Year honors along with First Team All-State and All-League recognition.
Looking ahead, Latteman is focused on helping her team take it one game at a time while chasing a state title. After graduation, she will continue her softball career at South Dakota State University, where she plans to major in accounting and compete at the Division I level.
