The Rifle Bears softball team might have missed the state playoffs, but their season showcased standout talent that didn’t go unnoticed. Six Bears players earned spots on the 4A Western Slope All-Conference teams, an impressive feat for a young team without a single senior on the roster. Rifle wrapped up the season with a 10-13 record, a mix of highs and lows that head coach Troy Phillips believes will fuel next year’s campaign.

“I thought all six of them had excellent seasons,” Phillips said. “Some of them were really great offensively. Others were really good defensively for us as well.” 

Among the All-Conference honorees, junior Brynn Axelson led the way with a stellar season at shortstop, breaking school records for both contact average and total chances at her new position. Her speed on the bases was unmatched, leading the 4A division with 35 stolen bases and finishing 12th statewide with a .576 batting average.

Rylan Petree, who also received all-conference honors, was right behind Axelson with 34 stolen bases, ranking third in the 4A division. Phillips credits both players’ speed and game awareness for their ability to turn singles into scoring opportunities.

 “They only got thrown out once each all season,” he said. “Their speed and understanding of the game really helped us score more runs.”

Sophomore catcher Katherine Santana turned heads defensively, boasting a .233 catches-against average, which ranks second in Colorado and 25th nationally. Santana allowed just 23 stolen bases all season while the Bears racked up 112 of their own.

 “She’s just an incredible worker,” Phillips said. “The difference she makes behind the plate is huge.”

Also making the All-Conference First Team were Aaliyah Mangnall and freshman Tyhler Decrow, whose play at third base earned her respect despite her young age. Petree and sophomore Ella Jackson were named to the Second Team, rounding out Rifle’s solid representation.

Reflecting on the season, Axelson expressed pride in her own growth and that of her teammates. 

“It was a growing year, and I think we all learned something,” Axelson said. “I took on a new position at shortstop, which was genuinely scary, but I think I rose to the challenge and learned from it.” 

Axelson added that the team’s youth offers promise for next season, with every player set to return.

Phillips, named Coach of the Year for the 4A Western Slope Conference, credits his fellow coaches in the league for the honor. 

“Every coach in our league was deserving of this recognition,” Phillips said. “I think any one of us could have taken home that award this year, and I’m a bit surprised it went my way, but I’m honored to be chosen and grateful for the respect among us coaches in the conference.”

For Axelson, next season holds even higher expectations. She’s excited about the team’s potential as they head into what could be a defining year. 

“I want everyone to have a positive attitude and for the younger girls to look up to us,” she said. “We’ve got a lot of good players, and I think we’re going to do great things next year.”