Jefferson County has its first Oregon state softball champions in recent memory. The Jefferson County Little League Senior Softball All-Stars came together this summer for one final run — and they delivered, winning the state title and earning a berth at the Western Regional Tournament in Missoula, Montana, July 23–28.
What makes this team remarkable is how it formed. The players — drawn from Madras, Warm Springs, and Culver — had played together as young girls in the Little League program before drifting apart to their respective high school teams. Gabriella Terrazas had the idea to bring them back one last time. She convinced her mother, Cassi, to coach, and one by one the old teammates answered the call.
A Roster Built on Old Bonds
The team features sister duos that bring special energy to the lineup. Niko and Zoe Kollen dominate the outfield. Mia and Layla Vazquez bring fire on both sides of the ball. And Madison and Hailee Kathrein form a shortstop-coach connection rooted in family tradition — Hailee, a 2025 graduate who earned All-State honors during her high school career, now coaches the very position her younger sister Madison has claimed as her own.
Assistant coach Hailee Kathrein reflected on the experience: "This is my first time coaching. This group of girls pulled together as a team, even though they haven't played together in the regular season. They are always encouraging one another, and I am honestly super proud of them."
Head coach Cassi Terrazas added: "I have never met a group of girls that is more deserving of this opportunity and experience. I am incredibly proud to call myself their coach."
Pitcher Evan Silbernagel anchors the mound alongside Sydney Mitchell, while Sarah Taylor has locked down first base throughout the tournament run. Catcher Layla Vazquez, according to coaches, has "risen to her true potential" with a fire that ignites the whole team. Mia Vazquez has emerged as a universal leader, excelling in right field and at the plate.
Send Them Off Right
Jefferson County residents are invited to a community send-off parade departing at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, from the Bi-Mart parking lot in Madras. The procession moves down Fifth Street to Highway 97 as the team begins its journey to Montana.
The team is still accepting donations to help cover travel and tournament expenses. Checks can be made payable to Jefferson County Little League. Every contribution helps these young women represent Oregon on the regional stage.
The Western Regional Tournament in Missoula runs July 23–28. Jefferson County will be watching.