In the heart of Oklahoma, a new star is rising in the world of softball: Lucely Kutz. As an elite shortstop for Epic National Smith 16U, Kutz has quickly climbed the rankings, currently holding the No. 8 spot among Middle Infielders and No. 25 overall for the class of 2028, according to Extra Innings. This installment of “Discovering the Future of Softball” will introduce you to Lucely, a talented athlete whose hard work and passion are leading her toward greatness.
USSSA Direct Select for Softball
Boys and Girls State Wrestling Champion
1st Team All District 6A-2 Softball as a freshman
Honorable Mention All Conference Softball as a freshman
Sole Freshman on the High School Varsity Softball Team
Aiming for Greatness: Goals and Aspirations
Lucely Kutz is determined to reach the top. When asked about her goals, she proudly stated, “Be player of the year and win state championship.” Given her outstanding abilities, these achievements are well within her grasp. As she described her strengths, Lucely said, “I have a strong arm (cannon), great footwork, and I’m well balanced.” This mix of physical skills and a winning mindset sets her apart from her peers.
Her determination doesn't just stem from her talent. “I go hard," she shared, displaying her commitment to improvement. “I have the heart of a champion,” she emphasized. On the field, Lucely transforms into a fierce competitor, stating, “Like a DAWG, serious, focused & locked in.” Her leadership and mindset put her in a class of her own.
Highlights of Her Performance
Lucely's talent has garnered considerable attention. The impressive write-up by Extra Innings noted her ability to consistently compete against older and stronger players. For example, she boasts a remarkable overhand throw speed of 67 mph, and is described as defensive stalwart.
Her batting skills are also a highlight. In her last season, she played a full year without a single strikeout, a rarity in softball. This remarkable consistency demonstrates her ability to keep the ball in play and presents a significant challenge to opposing pitchers, proving that she can contribute offensively as effectively as defensively.
She told me of a time when she jumped in the air caught the ball and did a backflip before she landed keeping the ball in my glove that ended in a double at SS. with pictures to document it . She also had another play where she caught a ball in the the outfield gap and used that cannon and fired it to first to get out number with bases loaded.
The Multi-Sport Phenomenon
A unique aspect of Lucely's athletic profile is her dedication to multiple sports. In addition to softball, she competes in track and wrestling. “I started playing softball at age 3, took up wrestling at 9, and joined track in 8th grade where I made the varsity team,” she explained. She even participates in boxing for fun, which helps with conditioning.
While softball remains her favorite sport, Lucely recognizes the broader benefits of her multi-sport experience. “Each sport keeps me in shape and adds to my strength, making me the player I am,” she stated. This commitment to diverse athletics highlights her versatility and relentless desire to become better, giving her an edge on the field.
Looking Ahead: College Aspirations
As a member of the Class of 2028, Lucely Kutz is at the start of her recruiting journey, yet her ambitions are already impressive. When asked about schools of interest, she named several top programs: “Oklahoma State, LSU, Texas, OU, and FSU.” These schools are known for their strong academic and athletic programs, setting the stage for her to not only excel in sports but in education too.
Building a Legacy
Lucely Kutz is not just a player; she's a force shaping the future of softball. Her undeniable talent, dedication, and tenacity put her on a path to leave a lasting legacy in sports.
As we follow her journey, it's clear that exciting times are ahead. Whether she clinches a state championship or earns player of the year honors, her story will undoubtedly continue to motivate others, both on and off the field.
Keep an Eye on This Rising Star
With her hardworking mentality and competitive spirit, Lucely is poised to make a significant impact, not just locally but on the national stage. Be sure to keep an eye on this multi-sport athlete; she is undoubtedly a future superstar in the making! Outside of softball she says she enjoys " resting & hanging out with friends which is vary rarely." Sports are not all that are important to her as she says she values "Church, school, family & friends." Her inspiration for softball comes from her family and her nana.