Photo by: Journal-World Sports Staff
The Journal-World All-Area Teams.
### Celebrating Excellence: Journal-World All-Area Teams
Every year, high school sports shine a light on exceptional talent, determination, and teamwork across various athletic disciplines. The recent revelations from the Journal-World regarding the All-Area Teams highlight astounding achievements by the athletes in the area, particularly in softball. Let’s delve into the key players and coaches who made significant impacts this season.
#### Coach of the Year: Bill Finucane, Eudora High School
**Bill Finucane** has masterfully steered the Eudora Cardinals to a splendid 27-2 record in 2025, culminating in a thrilling appearance in the state championship game. Under his guidance, the team captured the Frontier League and regional titles for four consecutive years. This diligent coaching led not only to strategic triumphs but also to a robust, resilient team dynamic.
**Visual Profile:**
Bill Finucane
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#### Player of the Year: Sam Claire, Eudora High School
Emerging as a standout talent, **Sam Claire** dominated the pitching circle for the Cardinals. Her record of **264 strikeouts** not only shattered previous school records but also set a high standard for future players. With an incredible **ERA of 0.609**, Claire’s prowess was acknowledged through multiple accolades, including first-team selections at both the Frontier League and state level.
**On the Offense:** She also showcased her batting skills, hitting **.375** with an impressive **on-base percentage of .505**, making her a dual threat on the field.
**Visual Profile:**
Photo by: Courtesy of Sam Claire
Eudora senior pitcher Sam Claire will stay close to home after committing to KU softball.
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#### Rising Talents Across the Area
The All-Area Teams also feature remarkable athletes from various schools, each carving their niche and showcasing unique athletic talents.
1. **Rylee Bentley, Baldwin**
– Batted **.410** and led the Bulldogs with **14 RBIs**. Bentley thrived as a first baseman with a staggering **.994 fielding percentage**.
**Visual Profile:**
Rylee Bentley
2. **Lexi Born, Eudora**
– With **40 RBIs** and a batting average of **.383**, Lexi was pivotal in Eudora’s success and received first-team all-state recognition.
**Visual Profile:**
Lexi Born
3. **Jaiden Burris, Eudora**
– Burris played a key role as a third baseman, boasting a batting average of **.476** and hitting **seven home runs** this season.
**Visual Profile:**
Jaiden Burris
4. **Katie Courter, Eudora**
– Courter led with a **.485 batting average**, making her a critical player and setting a school record for stolen bases with **55**.
**Visual Profile:**
Katie Courter
5. **Maddy Crawford, Lawrence**
– This senior third baseman impressed with a **.400 batting average** and a powerful **.700 slugging**, while ensuring solid defensive plays.
**Visual Profile:**
Maddy Crawford
6. **Paxton Damme, Perry-Lecompton**
– As a sophomore outfielder, Damme batted **.352** and earned second-team all-state honors.
**Visual Profile:**
Paxton Damme
#### Emerging Talent and Honorable Mentions
The list of rising stars continues with players like **Farrah Halsa** from Tonganoxie, who had an impressive showing in regional games, **Keira Norris** of Lawrence, excelling as a pitcher, and **Reese Pattison** from Eudora, whose batting and catcher skills made her an invaluable asset.
**Honorable Mentions** include:
– Lori Brooks, Eudora
– Delaney Bruhns, Free State
– Macie Corcoran, Perry-Lecompton
– And other commendable players proving everyone’s hard work pays off in performance.
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As this season wraps up with a triumphant showcase of talent, the athletes highlighted in the Journal-World All-Area Teams are not just a reflection of individual prowess but also a testament to teamwork, coaching, and the love for the game. Each player’s journey continues to inspire future generations in their pursuit of excellence on the field.
