Kendall Brown, Madelyn Gates, and Suzie Shultz named Eagle-Gazette Players of the Year

Kendall Brown of Lancaster, Madelyn Gates of Bloom-Carroll, and Suzie Shultz of Liberty Union have been named the 2026 Eagle-Gazette Softball Players of the Year. Each player showcased exceptional talent, contributing significantly to their teams' success in the state tournament. Brown finished with a.621 batting average and a 55-game hitting streak, while Gates recorded a.610 average and notable offensive stats. Shultz excelled both as a pitcher and hitter, leading Liberty Union to a 27-2 record. Chris Lucas of Bloom-Carroll was named Coach of the Year following a state championship win. The All-Area team was also announced.

• 10:01 AMYahoo Sports — Brown, Gates and Shultz named 2026 Eagle-Gazette Softball Players of the Year