Two years ago as a freshman, Council Grove’s Elle Dragone was able to establish herself as one of the top underclassmen softball players in Class 3A. She was named first team all-league as an outfielder and honorable mention all-state. Dragone hit .550, with a 1.025 OPS and a slugging percentage of .900.

Fast forward two years and Dragone not only is a household name in the state of Kansas, but nationally as well. Extra Inning Softball ranks her No. 248 in the Class of 2022.

“I would describe myself as a very passionate player that loves to win,” Dragone said. “I enjoy every aspect of the game of softball, and I find it exciting to be out there with my team. Along with that, I take pride in mechanics when I am on the field. I believe that it is one of the factors that stands out most about me.”

Dragone has committed to play softball at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. The coaching staff at Harding was what drew Dragone to the program.

“The coaching staff was very personable and always kept up with me,” Dragone said. “Along with that, the university was beautiful and had exactly what I was looking for.”

The pandemic last spring not only cost Dragone the regular high school season, but workouts and practice, too. Needless to say, she is excited to be back.

“It is very exciting to finally be able to play again,” Dragone said. “Last year due to COVID, I wasn’t able to get as much practice in. Now, things are getting back to normal, and I can finally start competing again.”