West Lincoln’s Andrew Redd knows what it takes to build a successful softball program. His Lady Bears experienced a great year in 2013.

West Lincoln has recently moved up to the Class 2A ranks after being in the Class 1A division for several years. With the new move, the Lady Bears fought and clawed their way through the season to capture their first-ever Region 6-2A crown in slowpitch softball, claiming 21 victories in 29 games.

The Lady Bears’ season came to an end with two heart-breaking losses to the 2A powerhouse East Webster Lady Wolverines in the second round of the MHSAA slowpitch softball state playoffs.

For this amazing accomplishment, Redd has earned The Daily Leader’s All-Area Coach of the Year for 2013.

“It is an honor to be recognized as the All-Area softball coach of the year,” said Redd. “This has been a great year for us since moving up to 2A classification.”

Redd presented his thoughts on his team’s season. “We went into the season with high goals. This was our first year as a Class 2A team. I wanted to see how we measured up to the other teams in our division. I have a special group of girls that really worked hard and were committed to winning.”

Redd has several talented players who have stepped up and had a great season. His starting lineup: Layton Sills at shortstop, Micah Redd at right-center field, Heather Moak at pitcher, Bentley Sills at first base, Hanna Moak at catcher, Malori Hall at third base, Destiny Allen at left field, Alli Mullins at second base, Brianna Fauver at left-center field and Karley Smith at left field.

Other members on the squad are Addie Spring, Cadie Maxwell, Katelyn Travis, Peyton White, MaKennah Redd, Anna Brooke Davis, Sara Jane Doty, Demesher Deer, Destiny Wallace and Brittney Hill.

The team posted an overall batting average of .364 and accounted for 217 RBIs.

Redd 45, has been coaching for 22 years. He shared his thoughts on what he enjoys most about coaching. “I enjoy being around kids. They have a way of making you feel young. It is also great to see the kids grow up and become not only a good ball player, but good adults as well.”

Redd is assisted during the slowpitch season by Coach Lane Young and his wife Camille Redd. In class, he teaches high school math: Geometry, Algebra II, Trig and Pre-Cal.

Redd has been married to Camille for 21 lovely years. They have three daughters Micah, MaKennah and Maddox. They live in West Lincoln’s school district.

Coach Redd bragged on West Lincoln’s faculty and community support. “This community supports this school, and they have always been there for us. The parents and supporters make it easier on us as coaches. Thanks to my wife and coach Young for all the help they give. But most of all, I would like to thank God for putting us here and blessing us with a great group of girls.”

The future looks bright for Redd and his Lady Bears as they are about to start preparing for the upcoming fastpitch softball season that will start in three months.