The Jefferson Falcons softball team is set to embark on an exciting season under the leadership of first-year head coach Nick Price. While this may be his first year at the helm, Price is no stranger to the program, having been on the coaching staff since 2019. With over a decade of coaching experience in both travel and high school softball, Price is ready to guide the Falcons through a season filled with promise and potential.

In a recent Coaches Corner interview with YSN’s Sam Torres, Price discussed his transition to head coach, the talent returning to the roster, and the expectations for the upcoming season. Despite the new responsibilities that come with the head coaching role, Price has embraced the challenge, with media obligations being one of the few unexpected adjustments. “The media stuff, really,” Price admitted when asked what has caught him off guard. “Between newspapers and interviews, that was always done by the previous coach. But everything else has been the same, just like running travel.”

One advantage for Price is his familiarity with the program and its players. The Falcons return six starters from last year’s team, a strong foundation for building success. While the departure of three key starters initially posed a concern, a standout freshman, Alaina Barress, has stepped up in a big way. “We walked in a freshman, Alaina Barress, who does not play like a freshman,” Price said. “It’s probably the best outfield Jefferson’s had in quite some time.”

The team is anchored by a strong group of seniors, led by standout Allison Hill. “I think she’s the best player in the county,” Price stated confidently. “Experienced kid, hard worker, I’ve never seen anybody outwork her. Selfless player. Huge bat.” Another key senior, Marillia Matuz, is making the move from third base to shortstop, a transition she has handled seamlessly. “It doesn’t seem like she’s never played there. Great stick, contact hitter, strong arm,” Price added.

Junior Kennidie Rogers is another returning player poised for a big year. Moving back to center field, her natural position in travel ball, Rogers brings a powerful bat and explosive potential. “The one goal I gave her is to keep her emotions in check. Play each at-bat like it’s the first one. She does that, and she’s going to light the world on fire.”

Beyond the experienced upperclassmen, younger players are making their presence felt. Alongside Barris, sophomore Julia Sprague and junior Riley DeMattea are expected to contribute significantly. “Julia has come a long way in one year, and I’m looking for her to really compete,” Price said. “Riley just keeps getting better and better with the bat. Defensively, she’s strong.”

Perhaps the most crucial component to Jefferson’s success will be its pitching. Price acknowledges that the team’s young pitchers had a tough freshman year but sees major growth heading into this season. “Coming into this year, I got two good ones. I think you can put them on any other team in the county besides maybe Edgewood, and they would be a starter,” he explained. “I’m excited, and I got two of them. Their arms are going to be fresh come playoff time.”

With a deep lineup of hitters, a vastly improved pitching staff, and a group of dedicated athletes putting in extra work outside of high school ball, Jefferson is poised for a strong campaign. “They work hard. A lot of people don’t see that,” Price noted, emphasizing the players’ commitment to private coaching, travel ball, and weight training. “They’re getting coached well, and it’s making my job a lot easier when I get them into high school.”

As the season gets underway, all eyes will be on the Falcons to see how they perform under Price’s leadership. With a mix of veteran leadership and emerging young talent, Jefferson looks ready to compete at a high level. Expect the Falcons to be a team to watch come playoff time, as Price’s squad aims to make a deep run in his inaugural season as head coach.