Wayne breaks in new coach

The Wayne Lady Bulldogs are set to hit the diamond Monday, August 10 to host Empire in their first game of the Fast-Pitch season. 

The Lady Bulldogs have a new face at the helm of their team, Charles Durrence, a veteran coach who has had several stops around Oklahoma before landing in Wayne.

Previously at Clayton for two years, Wayne is Durrence’s ninth coaching post.

“I’m still learning the teams in this area and figuring out who’s who. I know they play good softball around Central Oklahoma, so each team will be tough competition.

“Anyone can beat anyone on any day,” Durrence said.

Wayne lost five seniors to graduation, including Bailey Kennedy a mainstay for the Lady Bulldogs behind the  plate.

Also graduated were Abigail Lee, Readyn Dean, Stormy Miller and Maddison Hunt. 

Durrence and his squad have had a handful of scrimmages which helps the coach to determine his starting nine, but things are still up in the air.

“We have 17 on the team and positions can change a lot. Through August nothing is set in stone, but once September comes I’ll have my starters set,” Durrence said.

The positions he’s sure about are pitcher and catcher. Junior Haiden Parker will man the circle with freshman Faith Brazell getting reps as well.

Sophomore Emily Woody will start as catcher for Wayne.

With two vocal seniors on the squad, Allie Walck and Kamryn Moss, Durrence has been pleased with their leadership. 

“Allie and Kamryn have stepped up to lead by example. They’re very vocal. 

“We have lots of vocal girls on the team and I see leaders in all classes,” Durrence said.

The Lady Bulldogs kick off their schedule Monday hosting Empire and then traveling to Vanoss Tuesday. They round out their first week of play with the Central Marlow tournament Thursday through Saturday.

The coach is impressed with the girls’ hard work and commitment to his new schemes.

“Offensively, they are getting used to what I want them to do. It’s a little different than what they are used to. 

“I like to incorporate small ball more  -- bunt and runs -- and we’ll be more aggressive on the base paths.”

Even though the Spring slow-pitch was cut short and few girls had opportunities to play ball over the summer due to COVID-19, Durrence is eager to get the season started and see his team in action.