Trojans Lean on Joy, Unity and Veteran Core in 2026 Softball Campaign

Tree of Life Christian’s varsity softball program enters the new season with a clear identity and an experienced core, aiming to blend joy and competitiveness as it navigates a challenging schedule. Playing under the banner of values like joy, unity, excellence and resilience, the Trojans are focused on becoming smarter, more versatile players who understand the game as well as they execute it. With a veteran pitcher, seasoned upperclassmen and an energetic group of underclassmen and freshmen, the program believes this spring can be a step forward in both results and culture.

Team captains Zion Harris, Bri Bishara and Laina Corner headline the returning leadership for Tree of Life, providing structure and experience in key moments. Junior Charlee Hodges will serve as assistant captain, giving the Trojans a strong leadership group that spans multiple grade levels and positions. Coach Morgan Green, along with assistant Bethany Thompson, will lean on that leadership to set standards in practice and in games as expectations rise for a group that has worked steadily in the offseason.

Behind the plate, freshman Kaia Bray is a newcomer to watch, stepping into a critical role for the Trojans’ battery. She joins a roster that includes returning contributors such as Bri Bishara (No. 11), Laina Corner (No. 9), Lillian D’Angelo (No. 8), Megan Donnally (No. 16), Jordyn Eldridge (No. 2), Mapendo Ese (No. 10), Aleah Gibson (No. 12), Harris (No. 7), Hodges (No. 14), Lizzy Kennedy (No. 18), Sophia Marin (No. 6) and Rilynn Murphy (No. 1). With a veteran pitcher supported by several developing pitchers, Tree of Life is working to build a deep and adaptable staff that can handle the demands of a full schedule.

That adaptability is at the core of the Trojans’ on-field identity. Practices have emphasized becoming “smart players” with high game IQ and situational awareness, along with developing athletes who can move fluidly between positions. Coaches have focused on building a strong foundation of clean mechanics so players can contribute anywhere on the field. Strength training, conditioning and running have been daily staples, while vocal communication and in-game leadership remain key areas of emphasis as the team continues to grow.

The schedule offers several benchmarks for that progress, including matchups with conference rival Madison Christian and fellow small-school contender Delaware Christian that are circled as games to watch. In addition, the Trojans will be tested by the introduction of weekend doubleheaders, which will demand depth in the circle and consistency across the roster. Recent history against programs such as Madison Christian, Shekinah Christian, Genoa Christian, Wellington and Grandview Heights underscores the level of competition Tree of Life expects to face again this spring.

As the season begins, Tree of Life’s outlook centers less on a single statistic and more on sustained growth. If the Trojans can translate their offseason conditioning, emerging pitching depth and vocal emphasis on unity into better situational awareness and stronger in-game leadership, they believe they can contend each time they take the field. With a senior-led core, an impact freshman at catcher and a clear set of values guiding them, the Trojans enter the year expecting to compete with purpose and finish the season as a more complete, resilient program.