After finishing the 2025 season with an 8-10 record and a young roster gaining valuable experience, Kirtland enters the 2026 softball season believing it can take a step forward in the Chagrin Valley Conference Valley Division.
With seven starters and 13 letterwinners returning, the Hornets have a stronger foundation and a team mentality built around effort and competitiveness.
“We will be competitive this year,” said Kirtland coach Jamie Kamensky. “The girls have put in the work in the offseason and have a ‘leave it on the field’ and ‘chance it attitude.’ They want to get better, and they want to compete, which is amazing. If we compete and things fall into place, we have a chance to have a pretty solid season.”
Kirtland finished tied for fourth in the Valley Division last season and fell in the sectional final, but the experience gained from that season could prove valuable as the Hornets try to climb the standings.
“Our goal is to be in every game and not be outworked,” Kamensky said. “We have a goal to get to districts this year, and take at least third in the conference.”
Infield Leadership
The Hornets will lean heavily on experience in the infield, led by junior shortstop Karli DiFranco. DiFranco has taken on a leadership role for the program while continuing to develop her defensive skills.
“Karli has stepped up as a leader on and off the field,” Kamensky said. “She has focused on fundamental development and has a cannon of an arm.”
At first base, junior Katherine Bradshaw provides stability and toughness defensively.
“She has a great glove and is a wall,” Kamensky said. “She is very aggressive and a go-getter.”
Behind the plate, sophomore Josie Burich will handle the catching duties and is expected to play a key role in guiding the pitching staff.
“She has all the tools to lead the team and take us to the next level,” Kamensky said.
Several players will rotate through the middle infield and third base positions, including sophomores Julia Cottrell and Gia DiRenzo, freshman Alivia Mason, and junior Gracie Svigel.
“They all understand the right side of the field, fluid fielding, and have a quiet presence, but solid presence,” Kamensky said.
At third base, Svigel, Cottrell, and DiRenzo are competing for the starting role.
“They are battling for a spot and each presents strengths that will give us a solid hot corner,” Kamensky said.
Strong Outfield Anchor
Junior Maggie Kothera anchors the outfield after earning first-team All-District honors last season. Her presence in center field gives the Hornets a defensive leader with strong range and arm strength.
“Maggie is a staple in the outfield and the lineup,” Kamensky said. “She reads the ball well and has a cannon for an arm.”
Left field will likely be handled by sophomore Caroline Domes or Mason, both of whom bring strong arms and natural instincts to the position.
“They both are natural and reactive in left field,” Kamensky said. “Both have great arms. They are a great complement to Maggie in center field.”
Right field and the designated player role will feature sophomores Riley Kinch and Abela Delgado, who both provide offensive potential.
“Both bring something to the table for offense, and both can bring a lot to the table for the outfield crew,” Kamensky said.
Pitching Depth
The Hornets will rely on a three-player pitching rotation that offers a mix of youth and experience.
Mason is projected to lead the rotation.
“She moves the ball around well and locates her pitches,” Kamensky said.
Svigel brings experience to the circle and the ability to vary speeds.
“Gracie has the experience under her belt, and she can change up her speeds, and she is able to throw a drop,” Kamensky said.
Cottrell rounds out the rotation with strong velocity and developing secondary pitches.
“Julia throws the ball hard and locates pretty well,” Kamensky said. “She is developing a change and rise. When those kick in, look out.”
Keys to the Season
Kirtland’s biggest challenge this spring will be adapting to the speed of varsity softball while continuing to build experience across the roster.
“Experience and playing at a faster tempo than most of our players are used to,” Kamensky said.
Still, the Hornets believe their mindset and work ethic could help them take the next step.
“Attitude and drive because the want is there,” Kamensky said.
If the Hornets can translate the improvements they’ve made in practice into game situations, they could position themselves for a competitive season in the Valley Division.
“We need to be able to translate our skill practice into game play,” Kamensky said.
Kirtland Hornets Softball
