CLINTON RED TORNADOES

Coach: WHITNEY MISAK

5-22

OUTLOOK

Nestled in one of the state’s softball breadbaskets, Clinton looks to establish its future  in the 4A landscape this season. “We are going to be a young team, but we have more flexibility offensively and defensively than we have had previously,” head coach Whitney Misak said. The Red Tornadoes’ schedule features matchups with state quarterfinalist Weatherford (Aug. 29, Sept. 19), No. 15-finisher Elk City (Aug. 22), Class A semifinalist Arapaho-Butler (Aug. 20) and several others that finished the 2024 season with winning records. The Tornadoes will also play in the Maggie Walker Tournament in Hobart (Aug. 15-17), the Elk City Festival (Aug. 19), the Hydro-Eakly Festival (Sept. 3) and the Northwest Oklahoma City festival (Sept. 21). Needless to say, Clinton isn’t shying from competition. Veterans like Addison Newcomb (Sr.) will give Clinton its heartbeat. “[Newcomb] will be the senior leadership in the outfield and the leadoff of the lineup,” Misak said. Fellow senior Kari Begay and Audriana Trout (Jr.), Alix Ivy (Jr.) and Makayla Stennis (So.) will share the outfield with Newcomb. Rylee Rodebush (Fr.), yet to make her varsity debut, is one of the team’s most promising newcomers and will be a crucial piece to the Tornadoes’ success this year. “Rylee will be an incoming freshman to fill a big position as a catcher,” Misak said. “She is also bringing with her a good bat. She will a very influential person in our lineup early on and often.” Grace Meacham (Sr.) will likely be the Tornadoes’ starting third baseman and can step in behind the dish. With experience playing against the top dogs in western Oklahoma, Meacham’s presence can’t be understated. “As a senior, Grace is always looking for ways to bring the team together.” Addi Crowdis (Sr), Paige Pugh (So.) and Reese Giblet (So.) are expected to round out the infield. Clinton’s pitching staff includes Addyson Littke (Sr.), Brinley Taylor (Fr.) and Emma Ray (Fr.). “Her [Littke] character is unmatched. She is one of the most selfless teenage girls that I have had an opportunity to coach,” Misak said. “Even when things are tough for her and she has her back against a wall, she is always willing to give up her issues to help others in need.” The Tornadoes will go as far as their undeniable leadership and chemistry take them this year, starting with their home-opener against Alus on Monday, Aug. 12 at 5 p.m.