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VYPE Coaches Corner: Kingwood Softball Coach Christa Williams-Yates; Playoff Preview
The Kingwood Mustangs enter the third round of the UIL-6A postseason as one of the top programs in the state, and now prepare to take on Alvin to cap off the week, with the intention of reaching the Regional Tournament.
In her first year with the team, softball legend and head coach Christa Williams-Yates has aided in Kingwood's re-emergence as a state contender, while establishing a new culture on the diamond.
VYPE's Matthew Ogle spoke with Williams-Yates, discussing the Mustangs' culture-change, their preparation for Alvin, and more.
Check out the interview below!
Some of the stars of 2023-24 Kingwood Softball
BASES LOADED: Williams-Yates Era begins at No. 5 Kingwood
No. 5 -- Kingwood Mustangs
The Kingwood Mustangs are led by one of the most decorated softball players to come out of Houston, Texas – Christa Williams-Yates. Williams-Yates is a two-time Olympic gold medalist after playing her college ball at Texas, but enough about her.
Her team has some star-power of its own. The trio of juniors -- Addyson Sheppard, Leilani Garcia and Mia Gagliardi – will lead the stable. Gagliardi calls the game behind the plate, while Sheppard (Arizona-commit) is a slick-fielding shortstop. Garcia turns-two at second base and is quick around the bases.
The ‘Stangs knocked off Brazoswood in the second round of the 2023 postseason, before falling to the eventual State Champs, Pearland, in Round No. 3.
However, this season may very well play out differently for Kingwood.