The Hive Sports

by James Tate

With the first pitch of the season set for early March, the next month will bring a steady rollout of preview articles spotlighting every Region 1 and Region 5 softball team. Both regions return a mix of proven veterans, rising underclassmen, and programs hungry to climb the standings, making this spring one of the most intriguing in recent memory.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll break down the players, storylines, and competitive edges that will shape northern Utah’s race to the region championships and postseason success. We start the preview with the Region 1 Weber Warriors.

2025 record: Overall (3-21) Region (1-9)

Head Coach: Janette Blaisdell – 1st year

The Warriors enter the 2026 season with renewed energy and a fresh direction. After a challenging 2025 campaign last spring, Weber turns the page with the arrival of first‑year head coach Janette Blaisdell, a former Clearfield High standout and Weber State University player who has spent the past seven years developing young athletes at North Ogden Junior High.

Coach Blaisdell steps into a program hungry for identity and stability, sharing a coaching philosophy rooted in positivity, accountability, and genuine belief in her players, which should build trust in her leadership.

“I believe in leading as a positive coach, knowing that energy and attitude start at the top and carry through the entire team,” Coach Blaisdell said. “When we choose positivity, accountability, and encouragement, it creates an environment where athletes can grow with confidence.”

Raegan Blaisdell

A foundation on the left side

The Warriors return two of their most reliable defenders and hitters on the left side of the infield, third baseman Raegan Blaisdell and shortstop Morgan Dixon, a pairing that will anchor both the defense and the lineup. Dixon finished second on the team last season with a .439 batting average and 25 hits, providing consistency and leadership at shortstop.

Blaisdell hit .352 with three home runs, giving Weber a power threat and a steady glove at third. Their experience will be essential as Weber works to establish the culture Blaisdell envisions.

“When we work hard together as a team, support one another, and commit to giving our best effort every day, we can be proud of what we leave on the field, regardless of the outcome,” Coach Blaisdell said. “Effort, teamwork, and character will always define our success.”

Returning bats and emerging talent

Weber also brings back several players who showed promise in 2025, including Ari Hillan, a .358 hitter, who returns as a steady presence in the outfield. Kaitlyn Tolman, now a sophomore, was dependable at first base as a freshman and is poised to take another step forward.

Emery Hayes, who carried the bulk of the pitching load as a freshman, returns as the Warriors’ lead arm. Emerie Jensen, another sophomore, gives Weber a young but experienced one‑two punch in the circle. Both pitchers were tested early and often last season, facing some of the toughest lineups in Region 1. That experience should translate into more confidence and composure this spring.

Emery Hayes (l) Raegan Blaisdell (r)

Building a culture that lasts

“The strong work ethic and leadership of our seniors this year will be a great strength to our team,” Coach Blaisdell said. “They have what it takes both offensively and defensively. There are some great underclassmen to help us be successful this year.” 

For Coach Blaisdell, 2026 is about more than wins and losses. It’s about establishing a foundation that will carry Weber forward for years to come.

“This year, I expect us to build a strong culture through leadership, with our upperclassmen setting the tone and our underclassmen ready to learn, follow, and work hard,” Coach Blaisdell said. “My goal is for every player to improve, compete with passion, and most importantly, have fun.”

She also hopes the season becomes something meaningful for her athletes, something they’ll remember long after the final out.

“I want these girls to look back on this season as a positive, meaningful experience, one where they grew not only as athletes, but as teammates and young women,” Coach Blaisdell said.

A program ready to rise

The Warriors know the climb won’t be easy. Region 1 remains one of the toughest leagues in the state, and Weber is still a young team learning how to compete at a high level. But with a new coach, a renewed sense of purpose, and a core of returning contributors, the Warriors enter 2026 with optimism and direction. A new era has begun, and Weber is ready to take the first steps forward.

Key losses

Ali Rhees (New Mexico Highlands University)
Gabby Montgomery (graduation)

photos courtesy of James Tate