Paris High School Lady Coyotes Softball Team Gears Up for Postseason With Focus on ‘Athlete Mentality’

Quincy Hannibal Keokuk, IL, October 8, 2026 — The Paris High School Lady Coyotes softball team is entering the postseason with a strong sense of momentum, a success they attribute to cultivating an “athlete mentality.” This approach, according to head coach Collin Huffman and senior player Ava Crain, emphasizes perseverance and finding enjoyment in the game.

As the team prepares for the upcoming postseason games in Paris, MO, the players and coaching staff have focused on developing a mindset that helps them overcome challenges and maintain a positive trajectory. This deliberate cultivation of an “athlete mentality” is cited as a key factor in their recent achievements.

Head Coach Collin Huffman highlighted the importance of this philosophy, noting its impact on the team’s performance and cohesion. The strategy involves encouraging players to push through difficult situations, learn from setbacks, and maintain a consistent focus on the goals ahead. This mental fortitude is seen as crucial for navigating the competitive landscape of postseason play.

Senior player Ava Crain echoed Coach Huffman’s sentiments, offering a player’s perspective on the team’s mindset. Crain described the “athlete mentality” as integral to their current success, emphasizing the value of perseverance even when facing adversity. Furthermore, she pointed to the importance of players genuinely enjoying the game as a motivating factor that contributes to their collective performance and team spirit.

The team’s ability to translate this mental approach into tangible success on the field positions them as a competitive force as they advance into the postseason. The focus remains on applying these principles to each game, aiming to extend their positive momentum.

Story summarized from the original created by Gracie Stubblefield on www.wgem.com, see more information here.

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