Teams are built on speed, leadership and strong fundamentals, with underclassmen stepping into pivotal roles.

Columbia Falls returns key players while Whitefish’s rebuild looks to take the next step. Every school has players ready to create success on the diamond. Here’s a preview of this competitive conference. 

Columbia Falls Wildkats 

They may have lost key seniors, but the Wildkats still boast talent capable of carrying them deep into the postseason.  

All-state shortstop Onnikka Lawrence anchors the infield, while Chevelle Bedford patrols center field. Bella Mann takes over behind the plate, and Kylie Jezdal-Davis is set to play first base. Juniors Katie Bulawsky and sophomore Ella Branstetter form a steady pitching tandem, expected to keep the team in very game. 

“We have to fill some spots, but I think our team has a ton of potential,” Wildkats coach Rick Lawrence said. “What I’m most proud of is how our girls support each other—on the field and in the dugout. They push one another to be better every day.” 

The Wildkats sit at 1-1 with an 18-5 victory over Corvallis under their belt. 

With timing and fundamentals clicking, the Wildkats are aiming for a top-four state finish again. 

Whitefish Bulldogs 

Whitefish is rebuilding, but the early signs are promising for a young, determined team.  

Coach Jack Foster oversees 16 players, none seniors, though most have varsity experience. This spring brings the largest turnout of players Whitefish softball has seen in over ten years. 

The Bulldogs rotate four freshman pitchers — Avery Britz, Baylee Hyland, Elliot Gallagher, and Jaylynn Johnson — showing early promise for the season. 

Key hitters Elyse Sharpneck and transfer from Texas Allie Stuart bring an offensive spark while the team continues to work on defensive cohesion.  

“Our goal is to get to the top four and play in state,” Foster said. “The kids want to be successful, and they’re willing to do the little things it takes to get there.” 

Foster added, “What excites me is their work ethic. Even when we’re grinding through drills, they’re laughing, encouraging each other, and still competing hard. That energy will carry us a long way.” 

Whitefish’s season starts on the road at Columbia Falls on April 7th, with first pitch slated at 5 p.m. 

Polson Lady Pirates 

Polson balances high expectations with youth. The Pirates have opened 1-2, dropping games to Belgrade and Hamilton before rebounding with a 12-3 win over Corvallis. 

“We’re really young, we need to get to the fundamentals, but we have high standards on this team,” Hanson said. “We expect to compete at the top of the conference.” 

Maddie Turner anchors the pitching staff as the ace and provides security to face top teams. 

Overall, Hanson praised the Lady Pirates balanced skill to all areas on the field and in the hitters box. 

If Polson continues to refine and gain confidence, the Lady Pirates could challenge the top spot in the conference. 

Libby Loggers 

The Loggers are 2-0 and stepping into form quickly with wins over Frenchtown and Eureka. 

With no seniors this season, a strong sophomore group is stepping into prominent roles after gaining varsity experience last year.  

“I look for us to step up quite a bit this year,” said Libby coach Kellen MacDonald 

Libby rotates multiple pitchers to keep opponents off balance. Coach MacDonald praises his team’s defensive ability, but he knows there is more to come. 

“I’d like to see our hitting become more powerful, but they are learning to trust one another. When they click, they’re electric—throwing, catching, and hitting in sync.” 

Leah Rusdal emerges as the team’s leader on and off the field, being labeled as the glue for all her teammates. 

Browning & Ronan 

Browning and Ronan round out the Northwest landscape. Ronan returns a solid roster from last year’s 25–30 players. Browning continues to develop a competitive, hard-working squad capable of challenging the conference’s upper tier.  

“Ronan has been solid for years, and Browning’s scrappy. Games against them will test our kids and teach them a lot,” Foster said. “That’s the fun part—every team in this league pushes each other to be better.”