Rain clouds threatened on Tuesday evening, June 16, but the weather cooperated just long enough for the City of Liberty, Liberty ISD and the community to honor the 2026 UIL Class 4A Division II State Champion Liberty Lady Panthers with a parade and outdoor celebration on June 16.
The championship celebration came just weeks after the Lady Panthers capped off another outstanding season with a dominant 12-0 victory over Brock in the UIL Class 4A Division II State Championship game at Red & Charline McCombs Field on May 29.
Fans lined the streets as the team made its way through around the city square before gathering under the pavilion outside Liberty City Hall, where players, coaches, families and supporters celebrated the program’s latest achievement.
Led by Coaches Karen Slack and Joe Slack, the Lady Panthers claimed the fourth softball state championship in school history, further cementing Liberty’s reputation as one of Texas’ premier high school softball programs.
The championship roster includes seniors Kylee Bishop, Jessie Fain and Abbie Key; juniors Bayleigh Taylor and Madison Thornton; sophomores Kinley Brashier, Bella Elliott, Kaylin Heuitt, Mia Minnifield, Izzy Reyes and Kyndra Strahm; and freshman Marley Mouton.
Head Coach Karen Slack said winning a state championship is something that never loses its appeal.
“It never gets old,” Slack said.
Ross Norwood served as master of ceremonies for the event and reflected on what the championship means to the community.
“Tonight we gather not just to celebrate a championship, but to celebrate a journey — a journey built on hard work, sacrifice, commitment, teamwork and belief,” Norwood said. “The Liberty Lady Panthers have accomplished something truly special. They have earned the title of 2026 UIL 4A Division II State Softball Champions, and in doing so, they have made history for our school, our district and our community.”
Norwood said the celebration extended beyond wins and trophies.
“Tonight is about more than wins and trophies,” he said. “It’s about the young women who wore ‘Liberty’ across their jerseys with pride, the coaches who guided them, the families who supported them, and the community that stood behind them every step of the way.”
During the ceremony, Liberty Mayor John Hebert Jr. proclaimed Sept. 16, 2026, as Liberty Lady Panthers Softball Team Day in the City of Liberty.
Allie Smart, representing State Rep. Janis Holt, District 18, also presented a special recognition to the team on behalf of the state representative.
Norwood then introduced Patti Atkins, who served as parade marshal for the celebration. Atkins was recognized for her commitment to and support of the Lady Panthers throughout the season.