Kelsey Lockridge returns to Warren Central as Assistant Softball Coach

VICKSBURG, Miss.(VDN) — Kelsey Lockridge is returning to Warren Central High School, this time as a member of the Lady Vikes’ coaching staff. The former WC standout is now coaching softball and sharing her experience with the program she once helped lead on the field.

“This is so surreal,” Lockridge said. “I’m excited to start with a new generation of softball girls, and when I step on this field I remember my high school career.”

Lockridge will work with the infielders after a successful playing career at Alcorn State University. She became a standout for the Lady Braves early on, starting 23 of 24 games as a freshman in 2020. She finished her college career with 90 hits, seven home runs and 64 RBIs.

“I loved college softball, and that’s why I want to encourage players to go, because those are some of the best memories you will have, especially playing in the SWAC,” Lockridge said.

Before her collegiate success, Lockridge began her high school career at Vicksburg High School under then–head coach Brian Ellis, who is now the head coach at Warren Central and hired her to his staff. She later transferred to WC, where she played for former head coach Dana McGivney.

During her time at Warren Central, Lockridge posted a .457 batting average with 32 home runs, 176 hits and 97 RBIs.

Now focused on her coaching career, Lockridge said her goal is to help strengthen the Lady Vikes both on and off the field.

“I want to help them be better teammates to each other and develop them for college — and also to get a ring, because everyone wants a ring,” she said.

Warren Central’s season begins in February, marking Lockridge’s first year as an assistant coach.