The Hooks organization has officially revealed its highly anticipated 2026 South Texas Softball Preseason All-Star Teams, honoring 30 exceptional athletes from 19 different programs across the Coastal Bend. This prestigious recognition is divided into Private-3A and 4A-5A classifications, with selections based on votes cast by 72 local head coaches. The celebrated players are slated to be recognized at the upcoming 20th South Texas Softball and Baseball Winter Banquet, generously presented by Whataburger, where Valerie Perez, a distinguished member of Team USA and Banana Ball coach, will deliver the keynote address. This annual tradition underscores the remarkable talent and dedication prevalent in the region's high school softball community.
Leading the Private-3A division is Woodsboro senior Sidney Castillo, who receives this honor for an impressive third consecutive year. Castillo is joined by her teammate, senior Chayse Wernli, further solidifying Woodsboro's strong representation. Santa Gertrudis Academy, San Diego, and Bishop each contributed two players to this esteemed team. Natalia Escobedo and D\u2019Andra Fernandez, both two-time honorees from Santa Gertrudis Academy, are among the Lions' representatives. The Vaqueros are proudly represented by senior Mariana Molina and junior Dalisa Luera, while Bishop seniors Aubrielle Saldana and Kalie Garza also secured their spots on the roster. Refugio senior Jazaelynne Lewis is another repeat selection, highlighting her consistent performance. The Private-3A team is further enhanced by Taft senior Josette Aparicio, Skidmore-Tynan senior Jolie Mann, Odem junior Julia Garza, Three Rivers junior Sydney Ruiz, Riviera senior Angelica Ortega, and London junior Taygen De La Garza, all of whom have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication to the sport.
In the 4A-5A classifications, Coastal Bend programs continue to showcase their dominance, with Calallen at the forefront as it pursues an unprecedented fourth consecutive UIL Class 4A state championship. The Wildcats have four players on the team: seniors Jordyn Thibodeaux, Audryna Almaraz, and Braelyn Bailey, alongside junior Kylie Butcher. Bailey's selection marks a repeat honor, while Thibodeaux earns her third preseason nod, a testament to her enduring excellence. Tuloso-Midway also has strong representation with seniors Madison Gummelt, a repeat selection, and Avari Andrade. Gregory-Portland contributed two seniors to the roster, Emily Cameron and Kailani Vargas, reflecting the depth of talent within their program. Ingleside and Carroll each boast two selections, with seniors Kylee Ward and Leilani Smith representing the Mustangs, and Carroll seniors Isabella Montalvo and Kaeleigh Mendez earning well-deserved all-star recognition. Veterans Memorial junior Parker Malone, the reigning Caller-Times All-South Texas MVP and one of only two juniors in the 4A-5A division, is recognized for the second year in a row, a remarkable achievement. Rounding out the all-star lineup are Rockport-Fulton senior Maddy Dykes, another repeat selection, and Ray senior Kailey Benavides, all of whom contribute to the strength and competitiveness of the South Texas softball scene.
This year's preseason all-star teams underscore the rich talent pool in South Texas high school softball, with both established stars and emerging talents being recognized. The upcoming banquet promises to be a memorable occasion, celebrating the dedication, hard work, and athletic prowess of these remarkable young women. Their achievements set a high bar for the upcoming season, hinting at thrilling competitions and continued excellence on the diamond.