The Hive Sports

by James Tate

2025 Record: Overall (19-6) Region (9-3)

Head Coach: Mandy Koford – 2nd year

The West Field Longhorns enter their second year of competition, and their first in the demanding landscape of 5A Region 5, returning nearly every player from last season’s breakout debut. This experienced core brings production, chemistry, and postseason poise, positioning the Longhorns as an immediate contender.

Last spring, West Field made a remarkable entrance at the 4A level, surging into bracket play and finishing No. 3 in the final MaxPreps rankings. Head Coach Mandy Koford now leads a group that not only understands the intensity of postseason softball but is eager to prove it can thrive on an even bigger stage.

Rylee Andreasen

Star power in the outfield

The outfield remains one of the team’s greatest strengths, anchored by Deseret News First Team All-State senior Rylee Andreasen and Deseret News Second Team All-State senior Ayzlee Sessions, both committed to Snow College.

Andreasen was a force at the top of the lineup, hitting .469 with a .533 on-base percentage and collecting 46 hits. Sessions matched that impact with a .474 batting average and a team‑leading 39 runs scored, giving West Field a dynamic one-two punch capable of igniting the offense every game.

Sophomore Claire Nessen had an outstanding freshman year, including having a breakout game against Ridgeline, in which she homered and drove in four runs in the Longhorns 12-1 victory. Nessen was also selected on the All-Region Honorable Mention team.

A steady, powerful infield

On the infield, the left side is secured by the reliable tandem of third baseman Kam Bell and shortstop Brylee Leatherwood. Bell was an All-Region Honorable Mention honoree, batted .358, and was second on the team with nine doubles. Leatherwood earned First-Team All-Region honors after an outstanding year at shortstop and finishing second on the team with 33 runs batted in.

Their defensive chemistry and consistency helped stabilize the Longhorns throughout last season, and their combined 57 runs batted in added significant power to the middle of the order.

At first base, senior Hailee Ellsworth provides a steady presence with her wide catch radius and dependable glove. She also delivered one of the program’s signature postseason moments, going 2-for-3 with two home runs in the series‑clinching 11–1 victory over Logan. The Longhorns will look to replace All-State performer Ella Doxey (Seward County Community College) at second base.

Ellie Koford

Rising talent in the battery

The battery of sophomore pitcher Brinklee Hadley and sophomore catcher Ellie Koford represents the future of the program. Both started as freshmen and quickly established a rhythm that elevated the team’s performance. Hadley earned Deseret News Second Team All-State honors for her poise and command in the circle.

At the same time, Koford continues to emerge as one of the state’s most promising young catchers, managing the pitching staff with confidence, contributing offensively, and was selected All-Region Honorable Mention last year.

Depth and experience across the roster

Depth remains a strength as well. Seniors Mylee Gard and Addi Gibson, both committed to John Wood Community College, bring valuable experience and versatility. Gard can play all positions in the infield, and Gibson brings more experience and a solid bat to the Longhorns team. Juniors Abby Rudman and Cambree Pierson, along with sophomore Quinn Garrett, round out a roster that blends veteran leadership with rising talent.

A team built for the moment

With a lineup stacked with returning starters, multiple college‑bound seniors, and underclassmen already proving they can perform under pressure, West Field enters Region 5 with momentum and belief. Coach Koford’s squad has the talent, leadership, and competitive edge to carve out a new chapter in program history.

photos courtesy of James Tate