Softball Commit Kennedy Marceaux awarded Gatorade Player of the Year

Tide Softball's journey ended in Oklahoma, as they were eliminated by the Florida Gators on Sunday, June 2. Following this, offseason moves began, starting with the departure of shortstop Kenleigh Cahalan, who entered the transfer portal. 

Throughout the season, the Tide faced numerous challenges in finding their rhythm. Fans often questioned the team's abilities and had doubts about their chances of making it to the Women's College World Series. One of the main reasons for their struggles was their inability to get their bats in rotation. 

Get our free mobile app

Despite these difficulties, Cahalan played a significant role in the success achieved by Team 28. During her freshman season, she started in all 67 games and made an impressive debut with a 14-game hitting streak. In her sophomore year, she continued to excel, starting in all 53 games and earning second team All-SEC honors with the Tide.  

Cahalan leaves the team with impressive stats, including a .290 batting average, 113 hits, nine home runs, 61 RBIs, and a .937 fielding percentage at shortstop. In 2024, as a sophomore, she led the Tide in batting average (.296), hits (55), doubles (8), triples (5), and tied for the lead in RBIs (30).  

Despite the significant setback caused by Cahalan's departure, there is still reason for optimism due to upcoming off-season changes and the arrival of committed individuals. It is important to remember that all hope is not lost.

Notably, Kennedy Marceaux, a talented incoming freshman shortstop, has recently been honored as the 2023-24 Gatorade Louisiana Softball Player of the Year. 

This marks a significant achievement for Marceaux, who is the first player from Kaplan High School to receive this prestigious award. The recognition highlights her outstanding performance on the field, in the classroom, and in the community, establishing her as the top high school softball player in Louisiana. 

 Standing at 5-foot-6, the senior shortstop had an impressive season, boasting a .615 batting average with 21 home runs and 50 RBIs. Her stellar performance helped lead the Pirates to the quarterfinals of the Non-Select Division III state tournament, with additional stats including 14 doubles, six triples, and 25 stolen bases. Marceaux's exceptional skills have earned her the title of the nation's 7th top recruit in the Class of 2024 by Extra Inning Softball, with 65 runs scored, a .704 on-base percentage, and a 1.542 slugging percentage. She ended her high school softball career with 83 home runs.