Samantha Langdon, class of 2026, has quickly established herself as one of the most dynamic and impactful players in her age group. 

Representing Heritage High School and competing with the Fuquay Phenoms, Samantha has consistently demonstrated the athleticism, versatility, and commitment that make her a standout in the outfield. 

Her recent commitment to UTampa Softball reflects the level of talent and potential she brings to the diamond, and her development trajectory points toward even greater achievements at the collegiate level.

As an outfielder, Samantha showcases exceptional range, quick reads, and a first step that separates her from others in the field. 

Her ability to anticipate contact off the bat allows her to cover significant ground, making difficult plays look routine. 

Combined with a strong and accurate throwing arm, she is a defensive anchor who can cut down runners and control the tempo of opposing offenses.

At the plate, Samantha brings a well-rounded skill set that blends speed, bat control, and situational awareness. 

She demonstrates patience in the box and has a knack for putting the ball in play, applying pressure on defenses with her speed and aggressiveness. 

Whether laying down a bunt, slapping to the opposite field, or driving the ball into the gaps, Samantha offers multiple ways to impact the game offensively.

Her competitiveness is complemented by a strong work ethic and leadership qualities. 

Teammates and coaches often highlight her ability to lead by example, staying composed under pressure while raising the intensity of those around her. 

With her commitment to UTampa, Samantha continues to sharpen her skills and refine her game, positioning herself as a player who will make an immediate impact at the next level.

Strengths & Improvements 

• Quick first step

• Strong accurate arm

• Smart base running

• Consistent contact hitter

• Speed and athleticism

• Gap-to-gap power

• Game-changing defense

• Excellent work ethic

• High softball IQ

• Confident under pressure

Conclusion 

Samantha Langdon represents the type of complete softball player every coach desires. 

She blends defensive excellence with offensive versatility, making her an asset in any lineup or defensive scheme. 

Her glove work in the outfield is advanced, highlighted by efficient routes, sure hands, and an arm that keeps runners honest. 

At the plate, she brings an ability to adjust to situations, driving the ball when needed or applying pressure through speed and small-ball execution.

What sets Samantha apart, however, goes beyond just her tools. 

Her commitment to improvement, attention to detail, and unwavering determination to perform at a high level show maturity and focus beyond her years. 

The University of Tampa is gaining a player who not only has the skills to compete right away, but also the mindset to continually grow and push her game forward. 

Samantha’s future in softball is bright, and she’s poised to become a leader and difference-maker at the next level.

Abigail Howard is a standout Class of 2026 softball prospect from Willow Spring, North Carolina, whose commitment to the University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA) speaks volumes about her talent, work ethic, and ability to perform at a high level. 

A versatile and dynamic athlete, Abigail showcases the rare combination of offensive consistency, defensive reliability, and a competitive edge that separates her from the average player. 

She has developed a reputation for her strong leadership presence both on and off the field, earning the respect of teammates, coaches, and opponents alike.

At the plate, Abigail consistently delivers with a balanced swing, quick hands, and excellent pitch recognition. 

She thrives under pressure and demonstrates the ability to adjust to different types of pitching, making her a tough out in any lineup. 

Her offensive production stems from not just raw talent but also her disciplined approach, which allows her to capitalize on scoring opportunities and create momentum for her team.

Defensively, Abigail shines with her athleticism, range, and high softball IQ. 

She anticipates plays before they develop, often putting herself in the right position to make difficult outs look routine. 

Her arm strength and accuracy provide an added layer of confidence to her coaches, knowing she can handle demanding situations with composure.

What makes Abigail even more impressive is her work ethic. 

She is relentless in her training, striving to refine each aspect of her game. Her commitment to constant improvement reflects in her growth year after year. 

With her skills, determination, and passion for softball, Abigail Howard is not only prepared to excel at the collegiate level but also poised to make an immediate impact for USCA.

Strengths & Areas for Improvement 

Strengths:

• Quick first step

• Strong defensive arm

• Consistent contact hitter

• High softball IQ

• Poised under pressure

Areas of Improvement:

• Increased power hitting

• Enhanced base running speed

• More aggressive plate discipline

• Faster defensive transitions

• Strength conditioning focus

Conclusion 

Abigail Howard embodies everything coaches look for in a complete softball player: skill, drive, intelligence, and leadership. 

As she prepares for her journey at USC-Aiken, her foundation of discipline and hard work will ensure she arrives ready to contribute immediately. 

Abigail has already proven that she can compete at a high level, and her adaptability suggests she will continue to develop into an even more impactful player.

Her offensive approach, combined with her defensive versatility, gives her the kind of well-rounded game that translates seamlessly to the college stage. 

While there are natural areas of refinement that come with maturity and experience, Abigail’s commitment to growth sets her apart from many of her peers. 

She is the type of player who raises the level of those around her, motivating teammates through her dedication and consistent performance. Without question, Abigail Howard is a name to watch closely in the years ahead.

Madalyn Clark, a member of the class of 2026, represents everything a coach looks for in a young softball prospect: skill, versatility, and an unwavering work ethic. 

Currently competing with Mojo-Sampson 18U and South View High School in North Carolina, Madalyn has already begun building a strong foundation as a catcher and utility player. 

Her ability to move seamlessly between positions speaks to her athleticism and game intelligence, while her consistent drive to compete at a high level elevates her profile even further.

At the plate, Madalyn shows solid mechanics, maintaining balance through her swing and generating consistent contact. 

Her disciplined approach and ability to adjust to different pitchers highlight her maturity for her age. 

Defensively, she thrives behind the plate, commanding the game with her communication skills and presence. 

As a catcher, she demonstrates quick hands, solid blocking ability, and strong, accurate throws to control the running game. 

Her versatility as a utility player gives her added value to any roster, showing she can contribute wherever she’s needed.

Beyond the physical aspects of her game, Madalyn’s mentality stands out. 

Her faith and character shine through, serving as a foundation for her leadership and resilience on the field. 

She plays with confidence and a team-first mindset, embodying the type of player coaches want in pressure moments. 

The grit she displays matches the passion she carries for competition, making her an exciting player to watch as she continues developing.

With continued refinement in her hitting consistency and an emphasis on enhancing speed and agility, Madalyn has the tools to evolve into a complete player. 

Her foundation, versatility, and competitive drive make her a standout in the 2026 class, with the potential to leave a lasting impact at the next level.

Strengths & Areas for Growth 

• Strong defensive presence

• Quick reaction time

• Versatile utility player

• Leadership on field

• Consistent hitting approach

• Power potential growing

• Solid swing mechanics

• Smart base running

• Improving throwing accuracy

• Agile blocking skills

• Building first-step speed

• Increased offensive power

Conclusion 

Madalyn Clark is a rising 2026 softball player whose skills, versatility, and mentality make her a name to remember in the recruiting world. 

Her defensive strengths as a catcher are already well developed, from blocking and framing pitches to throwing out base runners with confidence. 

The added ability to play multiple positions only increases her value to coaches who appreciate flexibility on the roster. 

Offensively, Madalyn continues to refine her swing, showing flashes of both consistency and developing power. 

With her disciplined plate approach, she has the foundation to grow into a reliable offensive weapon as she matures physically.

What sets Madalyn apart, however, is her character and mindset. Rooted in faith and determination, she demonstrates leadership and resilience that inspire her teammates. 

She plays with intensity while maintaining humility, a rare combination in young athletes. 

As she continues her development in North Carolina, there is no doubt that Madalyn Clark has the potential to excel at the collegiate level and beyond.

Catee Maddox, a 2026 graduate of Locust Grove High School, is one of those rare student-athletes who manages to shine equally in the classroom and on the softball field. 

A driven competitor with a 4.38 GPA, Maddox demonstrates the type of discipline, commitment, and leadership that college coaches covet. 

Athletically, she’s versatile, splitting time between catcher and outfield while delivering consistent production at the plate. Known as a power hitter, Maddox’s bat is a game-changer, capable of shifting momentum with one swing. 

Her natural ability to drive the ball into gaps and clear fences makes her a middle-of-the-lineup threat for her AP Gold-Stewart travel squad.

Behind the plate, Maddox shows a strong, accurate arm with the ability to control the running game. 

Her framing and blocking skills continue to improve, and she demonstrates a high softball IQ that allows her to manage pitchers effectively. 

In the outfield, she covers ground quickly, tracks balls with precision, and displays strong fundamentals that keep runners honest.

What separates Maddox most, however, is her mental toughness and commitment to excellence. 

She carries herself with maturity beyond her years, balancing the pressure of athletics with the demands of academics. 

Whether she’s in a clutch hitting situation, blocking a ball in the dirt, or gunning down a runner from centerfield, Maddox plays with poise and composure.

As she continues to develop, Maddox has the potential to emerge as one of the most impactful players in her class. 

Her combination of power, defensive versatility, and academic excellence sets her apart and makes her a name to watch for college recruiters.

Strengths & Improvements 

• Strong throwing arm

• Elite power swing

• Quick reaction time

• Excellent plate discipline

• High softball IQ

• Tough defensive mindset

• Versatile field presence

• Consistent game impact

• Smart pitch recognition

• Hustles every play

Conclusion 

Catee Maddox represents the total package of a student-athlete ready to excel at the next level. 

Her offensive skills, particularly her power at the plate, make her a constant threat in any lineup. 

Whether she’s driving balls to the fence or delivering key RBIs, her ability to produce under pressure is something every coach values. 

Defensively, she demonstrates the rare versatility to play both catcher and outfield at a high level, giving her team flexibility and reliability in multiple roles.

Beyond the field, Maddox’s 4.38 GPA is a clear indicator of her dedication and work ethic. 

She balances her academic and athletic responsibilities with precision, proving she can handle the demands of college life. 

With continued development, particularly in refining her defensive skills and consistency at the plate, Maddox has the chance to become a cornerstone player for a collegiate program. 

Coaches searching for a well-rounded athlete with leadership, versatility, and power will find exactly that in Catee Maddox.

Payton Tamborra, class of 2027, has quickly established herself as one of the most impressive rising stars in the world of fastpitch softball. 

Representing Athletics Gold 08-Tamborra #22, while also competing for North Cobb Christian School, she continues to showcase elite skills on both sides of the ball. 

A commanding presence in the pitcher’s circle and a dependable force at first base, Tamborra demonstrates the combination of technical sharpness, game awareness, and competitive drive that places her in a special category of players. 

Her national recognition backs up the performance, ranked #4 in the Southeast and #9 in the Nation by EI, she carries credentials that reflect not only her talent but also her consistency in delivering high-level results.

As a pitcher, Tamborra brings excellent mechanics, smooth arm action, and strong command of her pitches. 

Her ability to change speeds effectively disrupts hitters, while her calm demeanor under pressure demonstrates maturity beyond her years. 

In the field, she is steady at first base, showing reliable glove work, quality footwork, and strong awareness of defensive situations. 

Offensively, she delivers solid production with a balanced swing and the ability to drive the ball with authority, making her a versatile contributor.

Payton’s leadership and team-first approach are evident every time she takes the field. 

She competes with energy, poise, and an undeniable love for the game. 

Her growth trajectory suggests she will continue elevating her game as she enters the latter stages of her high school career, with the potential to attract attention from top-level college programs. 

Simply put, Payton Tamborra is not just a player to watch, she is already a standout performer with the drive and skill set to be one of the premier athletes in her class.

Strengths & Improvements 

• Consistent strike throwing

• Smooth defensive footwork

• Calm under pressure

• Strong leadership presence

• Explosive bat speed

• Accurate fielding throws

• Smart pitch selection

• High-level awareness

• Focused game mentality

• Positive dugout influence

• Balanced hitting approach

• Reliable glove work

Conclusion

Payton Tamborra is the type of player every coach wants anchoring a roster. 

Her ability to dominate as a pitcher while offering reliable defensive play at first base gives her the rare versatility that strengthens her value in any lineup. 

Offensively, she is more than capable of producing big moments, whether by driving in runs or sparking rallies with consistent contact and disciplined at-bats. 

What sets her apart is not just the skill but also the mindset. 

Payton thrives in competitive settings, bringing composure and confidence when the stakes are highest.

Her current national ranking is a testament to her dedication and performance, but the future remains wide open with even greater opportunities ahead. 

As she continues to sharpen her mechanics and refine her game, she projects as a difference-maker at the next level. 

Coaches seeking a dynamic, skilled, and resilient athlete need to keep Payton Tamborra firmly on their recruiting radar. 

She is, without question, a name that will continue to rise.