Oregon’s Elite High School Softball Players of the Week

Ava Diaz vs McNary High School

Image: Ava Diaz | YouTube

Oregon’s high school softball scene is teeming with remarkable athletes who consistently deliver thrilling performances week after week. This collection of standout players represents the finest talents across the state, showcasing their skills and leadership both on and off the field.

From stellar pitching to clutch home runs, these athletes are making headlines and setting the standard for excellence in the sport. Let’s highlight some of the most impressive feats and celebrate their achievements.

Gracie Burnett, Beaverton

The sophomore catcher had a stellar performance going 3 for 4 at the plate, including a home run and a stolen base, while also throwing out a runner in the Beavers’ season-opening victory of 11-1 against Sprague. She maintained an impressive .585 average in four games during a spring break tournament in Las Vegas, hitting a double, a home run, and tallying three runs and two RBIs, along with throwing out three would-be base stealers and picking off a runner at first.

Sadie Caldwell, Liberty

The sophomore middle infielder contributed by going 1 for 2 at the plate with two walks, scoring a run, and recording three putouts along with two assists during the Falcons’ home opener against Lincoln.

Keana Cooper, Sunset

The junior, leading off for the Apollos, shined with a 3 for 4 outing at the plate, featuring a home run, a double, a stolen base, two runs, and two RBIs to help narrow a 6-5 victory over West Salem in a nonleague contest at Sunset High School.

Emeline Curaming, St. Helens

The sophomore notched a complete-game victory for the Lions, allowing only one run on four hits while striking out 11 and issuing two walks in a 4-1 win against Gladstone during a nonleague matchup at St. Helens High School.

Emery Curtis, West Linn

The senior excelled at the plate, going 3 for 4 with a pair of doubles, a stolen base, two runs, and three RBIs, contributing to the Lions’ dominant 17-1 win over Grant in a nonleague game at West Linn High School.

Ava Diaz, Tualatin

The senior catcher had a notable outing, going 3 for 4 with two doubles, scoring twice, and adding two RBIs to lead the Timberwolves to a 9-2 victory over Central in a nonleague competition at Tualatin High School. Additionally, she recorded a 2 for 5 performance with a triple, two runs, and five RBIs in an 18-0 win against Wells.

Morgan Donivan, The Dalles

The sophomore second baseman excelled by going a perfect 3 for 3 at the plate, including a double, a walk, two runs, and three RBIs in the Riverhawks’ season-opening 20-5 victory at home against North Marion.

Soraya Dorsey, Sheldon

The junior had a standout game, going 3 for 4 with a double, a triple, and an impressive six RBIs for the Irish in a 15-2 victory over Lebanon, which concluded in five innings during a nonleague meeting at Sheldon High School. Additionally, she was the winning pitcher, giving up two unearned runs on zero hits while striking out nine and issuing three walks.

Addi Faulkner, Forest Grove

The junior made her mark at the plate by hitting a home run, claiming a double, scoring three runs, and driving in three more, contributing to the Vikings’ dominant 12-0 victory against Corvallis in nonleague action.

Gianna Groner, Jefferson

The sophomore has stood out defensively at second base for the Democrats, executing a double play in her team’s initial game while consistently showing a positive attitude at every game and practice.

Blakely Hauck, Marist Catholic

The junior produced an impressive performance, going 4 for 5 with two doubles, a triple, three runs scored, and three RBIs in the Spartans’ 20-6 victory against Creswell in a nonleague matchup.

Daphnie Heckel, Thurston

The junior catcher made waves, going 2 for 3 at the plate, including a home run and a triple, while adding a walk, scoring three times, and driving in five RBIs to help the Colts narrowly defeat Caldera 19-18 in a season-opening nonleague game at Maple Elementary School.

Olivia Hildreth, Jesuit

The junior catcher recorded a solid 2 for 4 at the plate with a double, a home run, scoring two runs, and contributing four RBIs, assisting the Crusaders in sealing a 7-5 victory over Tigard in a nonleague contest at Jesuit High School.

Jadynn Ireland, Willamette

The Wolverines achieved an 8-3 victory at North Eugene, with a standout performance from their player. She went 3 for 4 at the plate, featuring two doubles, scoring twice and contributing an RBI. On the pitching mound, she completed the game, yielding three unearned runs from three hits while striking out seven and issuing five walks. Her prowess was also evident in a 15-0 rout of Springfield, where she delivered three perfect innings, striking out six, and in another remarkable outing against Clackamas, where she struck out 15 in just five innings during an 11-1 triumph.

Ashlynn Komp, Scappoose

The senior third baseman showed exceptional skill, hitting two home runs, crossing home plate three times, and driving in five runs for the Indians during their season-opening 24-0 victory against McKay, played in Scappoose.

Brooklyn Kuykendall, Grants Pass

The sophomore left-handed pitcher delivered an outstanding performance, tossing a two-hit shutout while striking out five and walking two in the Cavers’ 5-0 win over Yreka, California, during a nonleague match at Grants Pass High School.

Kalani Lyman, Putnam

The senior catcher excelled with a 3 for 5 outing boasting a home run, a double, a stolen base, three runs scored, and four RBIs in the Kingsmen’s 16-11 victory over Crescent Valley during the North Eugene tournament.

Hollie Maughan, Sherwood

The junior second baseman had a stellar outing, going 3 for 3 with a triple, a home run, scoring twice, and driving in five RBIs, leading the Bowmen to an 18-0 victory against Lake Oswego in a match at Sherwood High School.

Alyssa McCormick, Barlow

The freshman first baseman made an impressive debut, hitting a double and a home run while scoring three runs and driving in three during the Bruins’ 13-4 win at Tigard in a nonleague match.

Tatum Montiel, Marshfield

The senior first baseman had a flawless performance, going 4 for 4 with a home run, two doubles, three runs, and four RBIs for the Pirates in their 10-6 home victory over Elmira/Mapleton.

Jasmine Morales, Roseburg

The junior pitcher had an impressive outing, allowing just one unearned run on two hits while fanning 18 and walking three in her complete-game performance during the Indians’ 4-1 home win over Dallas in nonleague action.

Sloane Morris, Lake Oswego

The freshman catcher made her mark by going 2 for 3 with a home run and three RBIs in the Lakers’ 10-6 victory against Central Catholic, played at Lake Oswego Middle School.

Kendall Murphy, Pendleton

The senior contributor shone with an all-around performance for the Buckaroos in their 14-1 victory at Walla Walla, Washington. At bat, she was 2 for 2, hitting a home run and collecting four RBIs; on the mound, she pitched five solid innings, giving up one run from three hits while striking out six with no walks.

Delaney Qualls, Lincoln

The senior shortstop had an outstanding game, going 3 for 5 at the plate with a triple, four runs, two RBIs, a walk, and a remarkable three stolen bases, including a delayed steal of home during the Cardinals’ impressive 22-4 win over Liberty at Hillsboro Stadium.

Charliann Renner, Barlow

The senior kicked off her season with an explosive performance in a 10-0 home win against Mountain View. She pitched a six-inning no-hitter, striking out 10 batters and walking just one. Additionally, she excelled at the plate, going 2 for 2 with a home run, two walks, and four RBIs.

Macy Rush, Willamette

The freshman first baseman had an exceptional game, going 3 for 3 with a home run, a stolen base, three runs scored, and three RBIs, aiding the Wolverines in their 15-0 victory over Springfield during the North Eugene tournament.

Layli Segura, Henley

The junior outfielder displayed her talents with a 3 for 4 performance that included a home run, a stolen base, three runs, and two RBIs, contributing to the Hornets’ 16-1 victory against Yreka, California, in a nonleague game held at Lithia and Driveway Fields in Medford.

Violet Siegel, McNary

The junior utility player excelled with a 4 for 4 performance, featuring a double and three RBIs, propelling the Celtics to a 9-5 victory at Mountainside during a nonleague contest.

Anika Webster, Hillsboro

The sophomore catcher shined with a 2 for 3 outing that included a double, a home run, a stolen base, three runs, and two RBIs during the Spartans’ commanding 17-1 win against Cleveland, played at Hillsboro Stadium.

Kherington Wright, Forest Grove

The sophomore pitcher impressed by tossing a two-hit shutout, striking out 11 and walking two in a 3-0 victory over Westview during a nonleague game at Southridge High School. She also maintained her dominance in a 12-0 win over Corvallis, throwing three shutout innings, allowing just one hit while achieving seven strikeouts without issuing walks.

  1. Athletic Highlights

    Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais Joins 2026 Polynesian Bowl Roster

    2026 Englewood Cherry Creek DL offer Tufanua Umu-Cais

    2026 Englewood Cherry Creek DL offer Tufanua Umu-Cais

    Englewood (Colo.) Cherry Creek defensive lineman Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais has received an invitation to participate in the 2026 Polynesian Bowl, as announced on Tuesday.

    The standout player from Colorado expressed his excitement about this honor.

    “Being selected to the Polynesian Bowl is a huge honor,” stated Umu-Cais. “It’s a recognition of all the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices I’ve made, and it means even more knowing how much pride and history are connected to the game. I have seen many players in the Poly Bowl and even players that are in the league now. It is truly special to be a part of something like that.”

    Umu-Cais is eager to immerse himself in the experience in Hawaii.

    “I’m extremely excited,” he said. “The Polynesian culture is so rich, full of pride, family, and tradition. I’m looking forward to learning more, meeting new people, and embracing everything the experience has to offer. I am extremely excited to immerse myself in the Poly community because it’s my culture. I can’t wait to really put on for my family as well as my community.”

    This will mark his first visit to the Aloha State.

    “I haven’t been to Hawaii yet, so this will be my first time,” Umu-Cais shared. “I’m really looking forward to it—the beauty, the culture, and the experience of a lifetime.”

    Additionally, Umu-Cais is enthusiastic about the opportunity to compete alongside some of the nation’s top talents.

    “I do not know the roster yet and what players are going to be attending, but I look forward to meeting them and also competing,” he noted.

    The roster for the 2026 Polynesian Bowl includes early invitees such as Immanuel Iheanacho, Faizon Brandon, DJ Jacobs, Myson Johnson-Cook, Brandon Arrington, Chris Henry Jr., Kendre Harrison, Cederian Morgan, Honor Fa’alave-Johnson, Xavier Griffin, Kelsey Adams, Jamier Brown, George Toia, and Jett Washington.

    The 2027 Polynesian Bowl will feature early invites including Elijah Haven, Trent Seaborn, and Marcus Fakatou.

    Launched in 2017, the Polynesian Bowl saw its first Offensive MVP awarded to former Stanford all-purpose back Connor Wedington, while Buffalo Bills defensive lineman A.J. Epenesa earned the Defensive MVP. The following year, Kyler Gordon from the Chicago Bears and Tanner McKee from the Philadelphia Eagles were named Co-MVPs.

    The 2019 contest awarded co-MVP honors to Daniel Heimuli, a linebacker from Arizona, and Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams. In 2020, Sol-Jay Maiava, the quarterback from BYU, and Meki Pei from Hawaii won co-MVP awards.

    The 2021 edition saw Travis Hunter from Colorado take home the offensive MVP title, while Jaishawn Barham of Michigan earned defensive MVP honors. In 2023, Nico Iamaleava, a quarterback from Tennessee, was named offensive MVP, and linebacker Andrew Harris garnered defensive MVP accolades.

    The 2024 game awarded offensive MVP to Mike Matthews from Tennessee and defensive MVP to David Stone of Oklahoma. Lastly, the 2025 contest featured co-MVPs on offense in Husan Longstreet from USC and Dakorien Moore from Oregon, while 2026 defensive lineman Deuce Geralds earned the defensive MVP honor.

    The tenth Polynesian Bowl is scheduled for January 16, 2026, in Honolulu and will be broadcasted by NFL Network.

    For more details on the 2026 Polynesian Bowl roster, go here.

    The eleventh Polynesian Bowl is slated for January 22, 2027, in Honolulu and will also be aired by NFL Network.

    For insights on the 2027 Polynesian Bowl roster, go here.

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  2. Athletic Highlights

    Creighton Secures Former MEAC Player of the Year Blake Harper

    DMV Hoop Session Interviews Suburban All Star Blake Harper

    DMV Hoop Session Interviews Suburban All Star Blake Harper

    Blake Harper, a standout freshman basketball player from Howard University, confirmed his transfer to Creighton University on Sunday through social media.

    Harper, who garnered both the MEAC Player and Rookie of the Year honors, shared his decision on Instagram @_bharp.

    “you can’t say i ain’t earn it??” he wrote. “RDJ”

    A Washington, D.C. native who previously played at Gonzaga College High School, Harper entered the transfer portal on March 24 and ultimately chose Creighton, turning down offers from LSU and Ohio State. Standing 6-foot-8, he also had the choice to return to Howard.

    Harper is set to join a Creighton team coached by Greg McDermott, who led the Bluejays to an impressive 25-11 overall record, including a 15-5 performance in the Big East Conference during the 2024-25 season. The Bluejays secured an NCAA Tournament spot and concluded the season ranked 24th in the USA Today Coaches poll.

    Throughout the 2024-25 season, Harper made an impact at Howard, starting in all 32 games and averaging 19.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, contributing to the Bison’s 12-20 record, which included a 7-7 performance in the MEAC.

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  3. Athletic Highlights

    Which Teams Are Leading Michigan High School Baseball This Week?

    Bay City Western baseball ready for state semifinals

    Bay City Western baseball ready for state semifinals

    The Michigan high school baseball season has kicked off, and we’re here to deliver weekly rankings of the top teams across the state during the spring and summer months.

    Check out this week’s standout teams in the Mitten region.

    Michigan High School Baseball Rankings: Apr. 29

    1. Bay City Western (12-1)

    Bay City Western triumphed over Flint Powers Catholic 9-0 last Thursday but faced a setback with a 4-1 loss against Midland on Monday. The Warriors are gearing up for their next games against Lapeer on May 1 and Grand Blanc on May 5.

    2. De La Salle (12-2)

    The Pilots swept Auburn Hills Avondale on Saturday, winning both games 15-0, with game one ending after four innings and game two after three. De La Salle’s next challenge comes in the form of a doubleheader against Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice on April 30.

    3. Northville (14-1)

    The Mustangs notched wins against Hartland and two over Utica last week, followed by a victory against Howell on Monday. Northville is poised for a rematch against Howell on April 30.

    4. Dakota (11-4)

    After a heavy 10-0 loss to Rochester Adams last weekend, the Cougars bounced back with decisive wins against Sterling Heights Stevenson, claiming victories of 10-0 on Monday and 14-2 on Tuesday. Dakota is slated to face Stevenson two more times to wrap up their four-game series.

    5. Birmingham Brother Rice (11-6)

    The Warriors pulled off a sweep against Detroit Edison last week (2-0) and secured a 10-6 victory over Hartland on Friday. Up next, Brother Rice will face rival De La Salle for a doubleheader on April 30.

    6. Grosse Pointe South (18-2)

    With a win over Detroit Edison on Saturday, the Blue Devils set a new school record with their 15th consecutive victory. Although they stumbled against Anchor Bat on Monday, they have a chance for revenge on April 30 and May 1.

    7. Saline (15-1)

    The Hornets swept Chelsea in two games on Saturday and achieved a similar result against Ann Arbor Huron on Monday. With a five-game winning streak, Saline is stepping into the final match of their three-game series against Ann Arbor Huron on April 30.

    8. Orchard Lake St. Mary’s (10-8)

    OLSM traveled to Ohio over spring break, where they faced three games: an 8-7 defeat against Anthony Wayne, a 3-2 loss to Defiance on Saturday, and an 8-3 loss to Perrysburg later that day. The Eaglets are set to resume their Catholic League schedule on April 30 with a doubleheader against U of D Jesuit.

    9. Romeo (16-2)

    The Bulldogs are on an impressive seven-game winning streak, recently sweeping Stoney Creek on Saturday. They’ll look to maintain their momentum with a visit to Utica Ford next on May 1.

    10. Sterling Heights Stevenson (12-2)

    Stevenson is riding a three-game winning streak after defeating Anchor Bay twice on Saturday and mercying Dakota on Monday. The Titans will meet Dakota again on April 30 and May 1 before a brief pause, then face Utica Ford on May 5.

    11. Hudsonville (12-2)

    The Eagles wrapped up last week with a strong 5-1 record, including victories against Jenison and Rockford. Hudsonville is set to take on Rockford again on May 1 before hosting a doubleheader against Maple Valley the following day.

    12. Jenison (8-2)

    The Wildcats dominated Muskegon with a 15-0 win but narrowly lost to Hudsonville 9-8 last week. They split a doubleheader against Caledonia on Tuesday (W, 10-0; L, 3-2), with a rubber match scheduled for May 1.

    13. New Boston Huron (16-0)

    The Chiefs kept their unbeaten record intact last week with wins over Allen Park and Milan. They are set to play Flat Rock next on April 30 and have a matchup with Dearborn Divine Child on May 2.

    14. Detroit Catholic Central (10-6)

    The Shamrocks are currently on a four-game winning streak, most recently sweeping Portage Central on Tuesday. Up next, Detroit Catholic Central will face St. Francis de Sales in a doubleheader on April 30.

    15. West Bloomfield (8-3)

    The Lakers split a doubleheader with Rochester last week and followed that up with back-to-back wins against Groves, including an 8-1 victory on Tuesday. West Bloomfield will meet Groves once more on May 1 before taking on Stoney Creek on May 3.

    16. Dexter (13-6)

    The Dreadnaughts have struggled recently, dropping four of their last six games, including both matches in a doubleheader against Ann Arbor Skyline on Monday. They have another opportunity against Skyline on April 30 before heading to Adrian on May 3.

    17. Woodhaven (15-5)

    The Warriors have secured consecutive victories after experiencing two losses in a row, with their latest triumph coming against Dearborn Edsel Ford, winning 2-1 in a dramatic nine-inning game on Monday. Woodhaven’s upcoming opponents include Wyandotte on April 30, followed by Taylor on May 1.

    18. Rochester Adams (15-4)

    Rochester Adams holds a 2-2 record over its last four games, having recently suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Stoney Creek on Tuesday. The Highlanders have another chance to face Stoney Creek on May 2 before taking on Grosse Pointe North in a doubleheader on May 3.

    19. Trenton (13-3)

    The Trojans went 2-1 at the 9th Bob Kreszyn Classic on Saturday, achieving victories over Wayland and Flint Powers Catholic, with their only setback against Utica Ford. Additionally, Trenton triumphed over Taylor on Monday, and their next matchup is against Dearborn Edsel Ford on April 30.

    20. Midland (6-2)

    Midland upset the top-ranked team in the state, securing a 4-1 victory over Bay City Western on Monday. Despite a number of canceled games this season, the Chemics’ schedule is about to heat up, starting with a game against Davison on April 30.

    21. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep (9-5)

    Pontiac Notre Dame Prep faced a tough doubleheader against Flushing on Saturday, resulting in two losses, but bounced back on Monday with a solid 9-2 win over U of D Jesuit.

    22. Detroit Western (13-5)

    After a 12-7 win against Grosse Pointe North on Saturday, the Cowboys suffered an 8-3 loss to Grosse Pointe South later that day. However, they regained their momentum with a 5-2 victory over Cass Tech on Tuesday. Detroit Western is set to face Livonia Stevenson next on April 30.

    23. Grand Ledge (13-5)

    The Comets faced a tough defeat in a doubleheader against Okemos on Monday, breaking a four-game winning streak. Grand Ledge will aim to bounce back during a doubleheader against Lansing Everett on May 1.

    24. Mattawan (8-2-3)

    Mattawan has triumphed in four of its last five outings, although they faced a setback against Grandville, losing 4-3 on Saturday. The Wildcats will take on Gull Lake next in a doubleheader on April 30.

    25. Allen Park (8-5)

    The Jaguars managed to avoid a third consecutive loss by overpowering Lincoln Park with a decisive 15-0 win on Monday. Allen Park will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to host Taylor for a doubleheader on April 30.

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