It’s in with the new for both Glacier and Flathead softball as the 2026 season gets rolling Saturday.

For the defending AA champion Wolfpack — coming off an incredible six wins in two days to claim their second title in three seasons — it’s a change at the helm. 

Gary Evans moves into the manager role as Abby Snipes moved up to activities director at the school. Evans spent the past 13 seasons volunteering with the Wolfpack to help with pitching. He also spent time with Flathead before joining the Wolfpack. 

Evans says he is realizing just how much comes with the manager’s role. 

“I’m finding out how much coach Snipes did with this,” Evans said. “There is a lot that goes with it behind the scenes that I am finding out, it’s great stuff and I have great assistants.” 

Evans is excited to get his Wolfpack on the diamond Saturday for their opener against Belgrade at 11 a.m. 

“We have had 2 or 3 outdoor practices, it’s tough to judge with only a few practices and such a new foundation of players,” Evans said. “We will find out just how good we are on Saturday.” 

Evans believes hitting is going to be a bright spot early in the season for the team, noting that they have had a lot of reps over the winter with open gyms. 

“Defense is a bit of a puzzle for us at the beginning of the season because we have so many good players in each class,” Evans said. 

Glacier returns a few key contributors from last season including senior outfielder Karley Allen. 

Junior Olivia Warriner will help in the circle and infield, while sophomore Ava Grady is ready for her second season with the Wolfpack as a pitcher and infielder. 

Evans also noted senior Emma Smith who joined the varsity squad along with some girls who make the move up from JV that will make an impact this season. 

Meanwhile, Flathead opens the new season at its new home — ABS field in Evergreen. 

Brittany Williams says the move has been great so far with the new dugouts being finished this week and the team being able to take advantage of the indoor batting facility on site. 

“It is so different in a wonderful way,” Williams said. “The field crew and everyone involved have been wonderful in getting us and baseball ready to go.” 

The Flathead baseball program sets up shop at the same facility in its first season. 

The Bravettes also welcome Belgrade Saturday with first pitch slated for 3:30 p.m. 

Flathead brought in a pair of new assistants as well: Kendra Krueger and former Kalispell AA Lakers head coach Ryan Malmin. 

Williams notes a pair of returners who will guide the team in 2026. 

Senior pitcher Macey McIlhargey leads the way; she is expected to make an impact at the plate as well. 

Junior Olivia Nyman is another returner that Williams mentioned. She is one of five Bravettes listed as utility players on the roster that Williams hopes can make plays anywhere on the field. 

A trio of underclassmen also earned early commendations from Williams including freshman June Stickney and sophomore Sophia Torgerson. 

Freshman Reese Rosenberg brings her speed over to the diamond after a strong season on the basketball court. 

“I’m really looking forward to this season,” Williams said. “I think we are capable of a lot of greatness. I think we are capable of getting to the playoffs and state tournament.” 

Reporter Jon Allen can be reached at 406-758-4426 or [email protected]. If you value local journalism, pledge your support at dailyinterlake.com/support.