Pahrump Valley High Softball Preps for Challenging Season

Head coach Brian Hayes discusses team's defensive growth, pitching rotation, and ambitious preseason schedule

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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After a hard-fought tie against one of Nevada's top softball programs, Pahrump Valley High School varsity head coach Brian Hayes sat down with the Pahrump Valley Times to discuss the team's preseason progress, pitching staff, young talent, and ambitious schedule as they prepare to kick off the new season.

Why it matters

Pahrump Valley High School's softball program is looking to build on last season's success and compete at the highest levels, even as potential division realignment looms in the coming years. The team's challenging preseason schedule is aimed at preparing them for league and postseason play by facing top-tier competition.

The details

Coach Hayes highlighted the team's defensive improvements and ability to keep games close even when their ace pitcher Jaycie wasn't at her best. The team is also developing depth in the pitching rotation, with Evalenne Armendariz and April Ivy competing for the No. 2 spot behind Jaycie. The coach also praised the team's three freshmen starters, noting their experience from travel ball has prepared them for the varsity level. Overall, Hayes is confident that the rigorous preseason schedule will have the team firing on all cylinders by late April or early May.

  • The Pahrump Valley High School softball team is slated to kick off the season in tournament play in Needles, California.
  • The team recently concluded its last preseason scrimmage, where it tied one of the top programs in Nevada.

The players

Brian Hayes

The varsity head coach of the Pahrump Valley High School softball team.

Jaycie

The front-runner for the starting pitcher position on the Pahrump Valley High School softball team.

Evalenne Armendariz

A pitcher competing for the No. 2 spot on the Pahrump Valley High School softball team, with experience from last year.

April Ivy

A pitcher also competing for the No. 2 spot on the Pahrump Valley High School softball team, as the team looks to develop depth in the pitching rotation.

Mariah

A recent addition to the Pahrump Valley High School softball team, who has been grinding to develop her skills as the team's catcher since November.

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What they’re saying

“The biggest stride we made today was defensively. We've been moving pieces around, trying to figure out where everyone fits, and it was really good to see our defense make plays.”

— Brian Hayes, Varsity Head Coach (Pahrump Valley Times)

“Offensively, we're close. We've been one hit away from breaking games open in scrimmages and tournaments. It was good to see us get that big hit today.”

— Brian Hayes, Varsity Head Coach (Pahrump Valley Times)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.