Lapeer Community Schools is thrilled to announce that Isabelle Easton has been named the head coach for the Varsity Softball program.
Easton, a Lapeer native, takes the new role having coached the Lightning eighth grade softball team this past spring.
"I pursued this position because coaching is my new passion since I graduated college in May of 2023," said Easton. "I feel that coaching is my golden call and something I am meant to do. A few of my coaches that I had in the past showed me what it is truly like to love a sport. I want to guide and inspire the girls and be a positive role model to them.
"I am super happy to be a part of Lapeer Lighting softball and the athletic program. I will be able to support the softball girls and also watch other sports achieve goals. I cannot wait for the 2025 softball season. It is going to be tons of fun."
LCS athletic director Shad Spilski noted that Easton will bring a fresh, new voice to the softball program.
"When we interviewed Isabelle, it was clear immediately that she has the knowledge to take on this role and that she wants to help the continued growth of our softball program," said Spilski. "It's obvious she lives and breathes softball and that passion will be a huge asset on and off the field for our players. It's only early December, but I am looking forward to spring when our girls will take the field."
A 2019 Kearsley High School and 2023 Cleary University graduate, Easton said her coaching style focuses on being personable with a push for mental toughness.
"As a new coach in the high school program, it is going to be critical to build a relationship with the girls and to establish trust," Easton said. "I am extremely encouraging, while also providing constructive criticism and challenging athletes to reach their full potential."
Easton played travel softball since she was 10 years old. In high school, she was named Division 2 First Team All State her junior and senior years at Kearsley. Additionally, she played college softball at Cleary for four years.
Moving forward, Easton said she can't wait to get going with offseason training and felt a positive vibe in meeting interested softball players at Lapeer High School last Friday.
"The Lapeer softball program has a bright future ahead," said Easton. "There are a lot of talented athletes that are capable of great things. I am extremely excited to get to know each and every one of them, help fulfill dreams and overcome any obstacles. I cannot wait to support any of the girls that want to play at the next level and represent Lapeer Community Schools.
"My expectations for the upcoming season are for players to consistently grow and develop into strong, independent women, focusing on improving players' skills, muscle memory, and fitness, and building a strong team chemistry through accountability, communication, and teamwork. The development of strategies will be based on the team’s strengths and weaknesses to enhance performance in games. I believe it is essential to foster positive culture and diversity into the program. A goal of mine is to have the Lapeer Lightning softball program be remembered as home."