Vote for the top returning softball player in the Greater Savannah area

As the new high school softball season commences in the Greater Savannah region, the stage is set for an exciting competition after an impressive run last year, with three local teams advancing to the Elite Eight in the GHSA. Notable among them are South Effingham, who reached the Class 5A state finals, and Effingham County, the region's 5A champions that made their way to Columbus for the Class 5A Elite Eight.

Richmond Hill also claimed a regional title and advanced to the Elite Eight in Class 6A, while South Effingham and Effingham County will play in the Class 6A competition. A number of talented players are making their return to the squad, including South Effingham catcher Danni Lynn, the All-Greater Savannah Player of the Year last season, who has committed to play at Maryland. Her fellow seniors, Justine Nevels and Alyssa Martin, have both pledged their allegiance to UNC Wilmington.

The Greater Savannah Sports section has published a list of the top returning softball players for the 2026 season, inviting readers to cast their vote in an open poll. The voting window will close on Thursday, August 13, at 10 a.m. The candidates for the Preseason Savannah Area Softball Player of the Year are as follows:

1. Danni Lynn, South Effingham, senior, Catcher

2. Cheniyah Jackson, South Effingham, senior, Pitcher

3. Justine Nevels, South Effingham, senior, First Baseman

4. Alyssa Martin, South Effingham, senior, Third Baseman

5. Aubrey Ragins, Richmond Hill, senior, Shortstop

6. Sydney Minshall, South Effingham, junior, Shortstop

7. Ava Wiley, Effingham County, senior, Pitcher/Designated Hitter

8. Mady Reagan, Effingham County, senior, Outfielder

9. Rosie Dixon, South Effingham, senior, Pitcher/Infielder

10. Kenzi Polk, South Effingham, senior, Outfielder

11. Cheyenne Hart, Effingham County, senior, Shortstop

12. Kainani Auld, Richmond Hill, senior, Shortstop

13. Ashella Matias, Richmond Hill, senior, Outfielder

14. Gessilyn Clark, Richmond Hill, junior, Outfielder

15. Emily Johnson, Bryan County, senior, First Baseman

16. Lila Hannah, Bryan County, junior, Pitcher

17. Heather Garrett, Bradwell Institute, senior, Infielder

18. Layla Santiago, Liberty County, junior, Pitcher

19. Jenny Parker, Effingham County, senior, First Baseman

20. Brighton Harpe, Liberty County, senior

The reader poll will provide a platform for fans to express their opinions and select their favorite among these talented athletes.