Starks’ Madelyn Nolen Named Softball Player of the Week (March 31-April 6)

NOTE: Due to the impending Easter holiday, a second Player of the Week has been chosen from the March 18-23 nominees for the week of March 31-April 6.

by Hunter Bower // Managing Editor

Softball Player of the Week: Madelyn Nolen, Junior, Pitcher, Starks High School

Stat Line (March 18-23): .750 BA • .833 OBP • 1.375 SLG • 2 2B • 1 HR • 9 RBI • 4 RS • 14.0 IP • 3-0 • 5 H • 2 R • 1 ER • 1 BB • 20 K

Madelyn Nolen, the junior pitcher from Starks High School, has been awarded the prestigious title of Softball Player of the Week, presented by Visit Lake Charles.

Nolen’s dominance both at the plate and in the circle played a pivotal role in her team’s undefeated run over the past week. Throughout three games, she showcased her versatility and talent, leaving a lasting impact on the field.

Inside the circle, Nolen was virtually untouchable, earning a flawless 3-0 record. Over the course of 14 innings, she conceded just one earned run, striking out an impressive 20 batters while allowing only five hits and a single walk. Her standout performance reached its pinnacle in a matchup against South Cameron, where she threw a perfect game, leading her team, The Lady Panthers, to a resounding 20-0 victory.

But Nolen’s contributions didn’t stop there. She proved to be just as lethal at the plate, boasting an impressive .750 batting average for the week. With six hits, including three extra-base hits, Nolen ignited the Starks offense, propelling her team to a combined total of 44 runs across the three-game stretch. Her offensive prowess was highlighted by a jaw-dropping grand slam, contributing to her impressive nine RBI total and a staggering 1.375 slugging percentage.

In addition to her on-field accomplishments, Nolen finds herself on the brink of making history for Starks High School. With just two home runs separating her from breaking the single-season record and one home run away from surpassing the career home run mark set by none other than her current head coach, Wendy Gillet, Nolen’s impact on the program transcends the accolades she’s already amassed.