The Portal Panther softball team is under new leadership and looking to get things together by region time. The Panthers are currently 1-5 off to a slow start, but coaches Ashley Thompson and Brantley Spence are looking for players like Haeden Boren to continue to lead the way.

“As a player Haeden is top-tier,” Thomson and Spence said. “She’s a natural leader, incredibly dedicated, and one of the hardest workers on our team - not to mention the best hype girl.

“She has a way of bringing out the best in the people around her, both through her encouragement and the example she sets. Haeden has embraced the responsibility of being our starting pitcher and takes that role seriously. She continues to put in the work every day to become stronger and more confident.”

Boren is committed to being a leader on and off the field.

"Playing softball is a privilege to me," Boren said. "I’m grateful that I get to play a sport I love every day and be surrounded by my teammates. I never want to take that opportunity for granted.

"My role on the team is to be a leader and a good teammate. I want to bring energy, positivity, and confidence every time I step on the field. I also want to encourage my teammates and always give my best. I have high expectations for myself and my teammates. I expect us to work hard, stay positive, and never give up on each other."