The Hive Sports

by James Tate

2025 record: Overall (4-23) Region: 1-9

Head Coach: Kiley Crockett – 12th year

After a challenging 4–23 season that included a 1–9 mark in Region 1, the Layton Lancers enter 2026 with something they haven’t had in years: experience, depth, and genuine belief. Head Coach Kiley Crockett returns a major portion of his roster. He has a group that has grown together, battled through adversity, and is now poised to take a major step forward. This year’s Lancers aren’t rebuilding, they’re reloading, and they’re hungry to prove it.

Himle leads the charge in the circle

Senior Lexie Himle, a First Team All‑Region selection, returns as the unquestioned ace and emotional anchor of the program. A four‑year starter, Himle brings toughness, leadership, and a competitive edge that sets the tone for the entire roster. Her presence in the circle gives Layton a legitimate chance in every game, and her experience navigating Region 1 lineups will be invaluable as the Lancers push for a turnaround season.

Lexie Himle

A deep core of All‑Region talent returns

Layton’s optimism is rooted in the sheer number of proven contributors returning. The Lancers return five All‑Region Second Team honorees, each bringing a different dimension to the lineup:

Macie Clark, senior, middle infield

Clark has steadily improved each season and is ready to take the next step as a senior leader. A reliable defender with growing confidence at the plate, she’s the type of steady, veteran presence that helps elevate a program.

Serenity Overton, junior, catcher

One of the most talented young catchers in Region 1, Overton led the Lancers with 25 hits last season and continues to trend upward. Her development, both behind the plate and in the batter’s box, is a major reason Layton believes a breakthrough is coming.

Nora Morrow, junior, utility/pitcher

Morrow is Layton’s Swiss Army knife. She can play anywhere on the field, but her biggest impact may come as a one‑two punch in the circle alongside Himle. After leading the team with a .343 batting average, she’s poised to emerge as one of the region’s top all‑around players.

Ryleigh Newey, junior, first base

Newey was rock‑solid at first base last season and brings much‑needed pop to the middle of the order. A Standard‑Examiner Honorable Mention All‑Area selection, she’ll be counted on to drive in runs and provide stability at a key defensive position.

Ryleigh Newey

Key players are ready to make an impact

Junior Audrina Beeson is expected to be one of the most versatile pieces on the roster. With the ability to play multiple positions, including pitcher, she provides Coach Crockett with flexibility and depth that will matter throughout a long region schedule. The Lancers are also excited about incoming freshmen who are expected to make an immediate impact on the team and the season.

A new season, a new identity

Coach Crockett enters 2026 energized by a roster that has matured, worked hard in the offseason, and is ready to compete. With so many returning starters, improved pitching depth, and a lineup filled with players who have already proven they can produce at the varsity level, the Lancers believe they can flip last year’s record on its head.

Layton may have been overlooked last season, but that won’t be the case this spring. The Lancers have the talent, the experience, and the leadership to make noise in Region 1, and they’re determined to show just how far they’ve come.

photos courtesy of James Tate