Joley Bennett: Louisiana’s Next Great Softball Star

Farmerville, Louisiana has long been known for its small-town pride and close-knit community. Now, it has a rising star who is quickly putting the town — and the entire state — on the national softball map.

D’Arbonne Woods Charter School sophomore Joley Bennett has already built a résumé most players dream of by the time they graduate. A three-time LSCA All-State selection before even beginning her sophomore year, Bennett has been starting varsity since the seventh grade. At just 15 years old, she’s already one of the most feared hitters in Louisiana high school softball.

“It definitely was scary at first. I played my first varsity summer game in the 6th grade and I was very nervous” Bennett said. “But I had an amazing group of seniors who took me under their wing, and I adjusted quickly because I’ve been playing competitive travel ball my whole life.”

That foundation has led to jaw-dropping production. In just three seasons, Bennett has launched 44 career home runs — including 17 as a freshman — while carrying a batting average over .460. Her ability to change a game with one swing is matched by her plate discipline, where she’s struck out only three times in 122 plate appearances during her freshman season.

“After hitting 16 home runs my 7th grade season, I started seeing fewer strikes,” Bennett explained. “That offseason, I really focused on pitch selection and learning to attack my pitch whenever I get the opportunity. Pitch selection is a huge part of my success.”

Her biggest highlight came on the state’s biggest stage. In the state semifinals against Notre Dame, Bennett’s presence in the lineup was so respected that she was intentionally walked four times across the semifinal and championship games. Even without pitches to hit, she found ways to impact the game and energize her team.

“That semifinal win was unforgettable,” Bennett said. “The energy from both teams was electric, and the environment in Sulphur is unmatched.”

Built for the Big Stage

Bennett sharpened her skills further this summer playing with the Texas Bombers Gold 16U under Coach Dale Serie. Competing against some of the nation’s top talent, the Bombers finished #1 in the Alliance rankings, winning both the TFL Fall and Summer Championships, and finishing third in the Patriot Games.

Facing elite pitching has only elevated her confidence. “Some of the spin those pitchers can throw is insane,” Bennett said. “You have to go up with a plan, stay within yourself, and not try to do too much.”

That mindset has made her one of the most complete young hitters in the region — and a player who embraces the pressure moments. “I enjoy high-pressure situations,” she said. “I always remind myself that pressure is a privilege, and no moment is too big.”

More Than Just Softball

Bennett’s talent extends far beyond the diamond. She’s a two-time state champion in javelin and a 1,000-point scorer in basketball — accomplishments that showcase her versatility and relentless work ethic.

“I’ve always been a multi-sport athlete,” she said. “Basketball helps with conditioning, footwork, and communication. Javelin strengthens my arm. Each sport makes me a better all-around athlete and teammate.”

She’s also grounded in her faith and family. “I wouldn’t be in this position without God, so I give all glory to Him,” Bennett said. Staying close to home and having her family involved will also be important when her recruiting process begins.

Quick Facts / Stat Box

📍 Hometown: Farmerville, LA🏫 High School: D’Arbonne Woods Charter (Class of 2028) Travel Team: Texas Bombers Gold 16U (Coach Dale Serie)📊 Career Home Runs: 44 (through freshman year)🔥 Freshman Season :

• AVG: .465

• HR: 17

• RBI: 54

• OPS: 1.638

• BB/K: 21/3

• 🥇 Other Sports: 2x State Champion (Javelin), 1,000-point scorer (Basketball)🏆 Awards: LSCA All-State (3x), LSWA All-State Utility, District Co-Outstanding Player

AUSL Player Comparison

Joley has one of the most impressive HS resumes I have come across so I used Chat GPT to get a player comparison and WOW !!

Key Measurables from Recruit Day

• Overhand Velo: 62–64 mph (above-average arm strength for her age/position)

• 5-10-5 Shuttle: 4.93 sec (shows strong lateral quickness for a corner infielder)

• 20 yd Dash: 2.8 sec (good burst, not blazing outfield speed but plenty for 3B)

• Exit Velo: 72–76 mph (very strong for Class of 2028, signals real power projection)

  
  

Playing Style Recap

• Big-time power bat (44 HR before sophomore year, elite exit velocity numbers)

• Disciplined hitter (21 BB to just 3 K’s as a freshman — that’s ridiculous for a power hitter)

• Versatile multi-sport athlete (javelin arm strength, basketball footwork → transfers to softball)

• Plays 3B but has the bat to carry in any lineup spot

  
  

AUSL Player Comp

Looking at the new Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) talent pool, the closest comp is:

Sahvanna Jaquish (LSU / AUSL)

Why this comp fits:

• Power profile at the plate: Both are right-handed power hitters who can change the game with one swing.

• Plate discipline: Jaquish has always been known for her advanced pitch recognition, something Joley already demonstrates.

• Versatility: Jaquish moved between catcher, 3B, and utility spots professionally. Bennett is primarily a 3B now but has the athleticism to play multiple positions if needed.