New High School Softball Team Creates Competitive Opportunities for Lander Girls

In Lander, girls’ softball continues to grow in popularity—with the league expanding by 25% this season alone—but Lander Valley High School doesn’t offer softball, so Lander athletes who want to continue playing must drive two hours each way to compete on another school’s team. The school board recently approved creating a team at Lander Valley High School, but startup costs weren’t included in this year’s budget, requiring the team to fundraise for equipment and uniforms before the spring season begins. When a volunteer softball coach recognized this gap, she reached out to LOR with a plan: The Lander Girls Softball League will handle coaching and organizing in collaboration with the school, with the program becoming part of the district’s regular budget next year. LOR’s funding will help purchase essential startup equipment including bats, game balls that meet state athletics requirements, catcher gear, helmets, and uniforms, ensuring Lander’s high school girls can compete at higher levels and potentially earn college recognition and scholarships.