Coming off a 12-9 season that included a trip to the regional round, Cuyahoga Heights enters 2026 with a mix of experience and youthful upside.
With seven returning starters and eight letterwinners back, the foundation is there — but how quickly the group develops will ultimately define the season.
“We have a very young team with a lot of potential to build upon,” said head coach Kyle Manfredonia. “I’m optimistic with what these girls are going to be able to accomplish this year. Execution will be the biggest part of our success. Having confidence in themselves and their teammates will go a long way.”
The Red Wolves will look to stay near the top of the Chagrin Valley Conference Metro Division after finishing second a year ago, but doing so will require growth in key moments.
“I expect us to be competitive in each game that we play in, and to have a strong defense and to be able to put pressure on the opposing team’s defense with our offense,” Manfredonia said.
Offensive Firepower Led by Williams and Presot
The lineup is anchored by one of the most productive bats in the area in junior shortstop Aly Williams, who hit .510 last season with 19 RBIs and 25 runs scored. Her offseason motivation could elevate her even further.
“Aly is ready and focused to have her best year yet,” Manfredonia said. “She has put so much time and effort into her craft, and we are really going to see it pay off this year. Getting second team for our conference did not sit well with her, nor should it have. On both sides of the plate, she is going to make sure everyone knows who she is.”
Behind the plate, junior Giada Presot brings elite production and leadership after hitting .421 with 10 runners thrown out and earning multiple postseason honors.
“Giada is coming into her junior year better than ever,” Manfredonia said. “She has a lot of tremendous qualities that coaches want in their players, and I am excited to see her take another step forward this year. Giada can change the game in an instant on both sides of the plate.”
Sophomore Sophia Meklemburg (.398 average, second-team All-CVC) adds another reliable bat while transitioning into a new defensive role.
“Sophia will be stepping into a new role at first base but will also get some time in the outfield,” Manfredonia said. “She is always very reliable in everything she does. You never have to worry about if she is working hard, and we are going to see that hard work pay off this year.”
Senior Camryn Barnes (.217, 10 RBIs, 14 runs) rounds out the experienced core and is aiming to finish strong.
“Camryn is looking to close out her career on a high note,” Manfredonia said. “She has been working hard on the offensive side, and I am looking forward to seeing it pay off for her.”
Youth Movement Across the Diamond
Cuyahoga Heights will rely heavily on underclassmen to fill key roles, particularly in the corners and outfield.
Sophomore Neveah Reyes steps in at third base with high expectations.
“We are looking for Neveah to take her game to another level this season with a year under her belt,” Manfredonia said. “Neveah has the ability to do that defensively and offensively, which will benefit the team tremendously.”
In the outfield, Paige Stoltz and Brooklyn Domzalski are expected to make a significant impact.
“Paige will hold down left field and has been looking good at the plate,” Manfredonia said. “Her aggressiveness defensively is going to be crucial to us this year. With one year under her belt, I am expecting a confidence boost that this team needs. Brooklynn has been looking very good this year. She has taken big strides defensively with how she is approaching center field. We are going to lean on her a lot in the outfield and throwing a lot of girls out this year.”
The designated player role will be shared between Addie Stoltz and Brooke Cohara, giving the lineup flexibility.
“Addie and Brooke are both looking to make an impact on the squad this year,” Manfredonia said. “Where that is at is yet to be determined, but I am confident with whatever role they are playing, they are going to help this team in a positive way.”
Pitching Will Set the Ceiling
One of the biggest storylines entering the season is the emergence of freshman Brianna Kevern as the team’s primary pitcher.
“Being the starter as a freshman is not easy for anyone, but we have all the confidence in Brianna,” Manfredonia said. “She works hard on both sides of the plate, and we expect the defense to have her back.”
Williams is also expected to contribute in the circle, adding experience and versatility to the pitching staff.
Keys to Success
For a young team with upside, the formula is clear: execution, defense, and confidence.
“We have to have strong teamwork and communication, solid fundamentals, and making sure we are doing the little things right,” Manfredonia said. “Good defense and timely hitting will make for a successful season.”
Cuyahoga Heights Softball
