Scott Nickerson
Elmore Autauga News
The Prattville Christian Academy softball team was the only softball team in Autauga County to win an area championship in 2026, clinching the Class 4A Area 5 championship over Tallassee, BTW Magnet, and Catholic. They were one of only two Autauga County teams to advance to a regional. In the Class 4A Central Regionals, the Panthers won games over Handley, West Blocton, and Oak Grove, and fell just one win shy of advancing to the Class 4A State Tournament. Based on the successful season, the Elmore Autauga News has named Prattville Christian Academy Coach Chris Puckett as the Autauga County Softball Coach of the Year.
“I’m honored to be selected,” said Coach Puckett. “The head coach often gets most or all the recognition, but It’s a team effort and the whole staff (and those behind the scenes) puts in a lot of time and energy that often times goes unseen. Being recognized for these efforts and knowing our staff works hard to mold and mentor student athletes is rewarding.”
Coach Puckett noted that his team was able to make important adjustments as the season progressed that benefited both the coaches and players. He cited a couple of late season contests as the proudest team accomplishments for the season.
“There are many moments, but I think battling and winning Area after falling to an area rival late in the season and going and playing a tough tournament in Hoover late in the season. In the area tournament, they overcame bad weather and a Catholic team that had hot bats to finish out the regular season. Learning to battle tough opponents in some of our season tournaments prepared them for what they saw and had to overcome in area and their run to try and get out of regionals,” said Coach Puckett.
Coach Puckett is excited about the future at PCA, and hopes to have another successful season in 2027.
“I really just want them to keep building on this year’s success. Trusting the process and working hard on and off the field to develop their skills to reach their potential. Set high standard and help each one of them chase excellence. Keep striving to do the little things well and control what they can control and let the rest go. We have a lot of talent on this team and more coming up next season,” said Coach Puckett.
