by James Tate
Farmington Phoenix
2024 overall season and region record (9-13) (4-6)
Head coach: Haleigh Mortensen
The Farmington Phoenix softball team is gearing up for a season they hope will surpass last year’s nine-win record. With a blend of experienced returners and promising newcomers under the mentorship of Head coach Haleigh Mortensen, the Phoenix are eager to make a run for the region championship. Entering her third season, coach Mortensen has a clear vision for the team: growth and performance.
“We are very excited to have a great bunch of returning players this season, coach Mortensen said. “We have quite a few incoming players this season who will make great additions to our team, and we hope to grow as a team and find our stride this season.”
Kiley Gazafy
While the newcomers find their footing, the Phoenix will have an excellent group of returners ready to lean on. Seniors Lola Ogzewalla and Brooklyn Wright, juniors Ruby Andrus, Morgan Rogers, and Kiley Gazafy return to give the Phoenix a talented veteran group.
Ogzewalla is an exceptionally talented player who will cause opponents problems with her speed on the bases and in the outfield. She has committed to continuing her academic and softball career at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Andrus, a First-Team All-Region selection in 2024, batted .393 and is a confident, athletic shortstop with accuracy.
Rogers, Gazafy, and Neilson had breakout years as sophomores and are on track to shine this season. Rogers, a standout multi-sport athlete who batted .322 last season, is an athletic outfielder with a strong arm. Gazafy, a talented catcher and utility player, batted .333 last season.
Ruby Andrus
The initial games of the season will serve as critical tests for the Phoenix as they work to find their rhythm. As players adapt to each other’s playing styles and build rapport on the field, fans can expect to see a team that evolves with each match.
Players to watch
Jacie Nielson, sophomore, utility
Megan Hoskins, junior, utility
Sophia Strong, sophomore, catcher, utility
Key losses
Lexi Crowley (College of Southern Idaho)
Nev Carrasquel (Snow College)
Madison Kelker (Olympic College)
photos courtesy of James Tate
The Hive Sports 
Leave a Reply