The Western Nebraska Community College softball team landed two players on the all-region team that was announced at the Region IX tournament over the weekend.

                Sophomore Madi Jackson of Herriman, Utah, was named an all-region outfielder, while freshman Michaela Kelly of Castle Rock, Colorado, was named an all-region infielder.

                "I am beyond proud of Michaela and Madi on their accomplishments this year," softball head coach Katelyn Groves said. "Madi is definitely going to be missed in our lineup.  She has been a tough out the past two years and provided a strong hold not only in the outfield this past season but in the infield last season as well. 

                "Michaela showed a ton of power at the plate this season, hitting 14 homeruns.  Michaela was a leader on the field and has big shoes to fill next year with the departure of our seven sophomores.  I look forward to watching her continue to grow and compete next year."

                Both players had outstanding seasons for the Cougars this season.

                Jackson hit .421 for the season with 39 RBIs, 48 runs scored, 21 doubles, four triples, and four home runs. Jackson added 15 stolen bases this season.

                In her two years at WNCC, Jackson finished with a .459 batting average with 40 doubles, seven triples, six home runs, 134 runs scored, and 93 RBIs.

                In her first year at WNCC, Kelly batted .383 with 53 RBIS and 39 runs scored. Kelly at 16 doubles and 14 home runs. The 14 home runs led the team.

                The Cougars finished the season with a third place finish at the Region IX Tournament over the weekend. The Cougars opened the tourney with a 6-4 upset of top-seeded Lamar before falling to Otero Junior College 8-6 and Trinidad State Junior College 10-2. Trinidad State went on to win the title over Otero 4-3 in the if-necessary game.

                Joining Jackson on the all-region team as outfielders were Alyvia Woosley of Lamar, Rachel Duran of Trinidad, and Brooke King of Northeastern Junior College.

                Joining Kelly on the all-region team as infielders were Katie Glaze of Trinidad, Marcela Walker of Otero, Gracia Cordova of NJC, and Alexis Moeaki of McCook.

                All-region pitchers were Lauren Reed and Emily Eomeldorff of Lamar, and Teddi Garcia of Trinidad. The all-region catchers were Caitlin McCarthy of Lamar and Mackenzie Hooker of Otero.

                The designated player went to Riley Johnson of NJC, while the utility player went to Larissa Royer of Lamar.

                The Region IX Player of the Year was bestowed upon Larissa Royer of Lamar, while the Freshman of the Year went to Gracie Cordova of NJC.

                The Coach of the Year went to Lamar's Kristen Silva.