BEAUMONT, Texas – Lamar University softball head coach Amy Hooks announced the addition of six signees during the November signing period. The Cardinals welcome utility players Ava Ellis (Burleson, Texas) and Gabriella Flores (Wylie, Texas), outfielder Addison King (Allen, Texas), catcher Julie Montero (Round Rock, Texas), and infielders Isabella Serna (Poth, Texas) and Annelise Torres (Montgomery, Texas).
 
"This class shaped up nicely for us," Hooks said. "We were intentional about adding high-level athletes who could help us in specific areas where we needed depth and competition. We are bringing in a group of players with the athleticism, tools and ability to make an immediate impact on our program. I love the versatility and talent this group brings, and I'm excited about what they will add to our Cardinal family. This is a class that makes us better, and we can't wait to get them to Beaumont."
 
Ava Ellis – UTL – Burleson, Texas (Burleson Centennial HS)
Ellis is a versatile athlete who excels as both a pitcher and a hitter. In the circle for Burleson Centennial, she has won 21 games in 137 innings, posting a 2.96 ERA with 153 strikeouts. At the plate, Ellis owns a .485 batting average with 164 hits, 123 RBIs, 49 doubles, eight triples and 23 home runs. Last season, she earned numerous honors, including District 8-5A Offensive Player of the Year, DFW All-Area second-team recognition, and selection to the TGCA 5A/6A All-Star Game.
 
"Ava is an extremely athletic player who gives us a true utility option," said Coach Hooks. "Her versatility will allow her to contribute at multiple positions, and having an athlete with that kind of flexibility is a huge addition to our program. We are excited about the different ways she can impact our team."
 
Gabriella Flores – UTL – Wylie, Texas (Wylie East HS)
Flores will be reuniting with her older sister, Isabella, on the team. She is coming off a season in which she led the Raiders with a .506 batting average, 44 hits, 37 RBIs and six home runs while posting a .561 on-base percentage. She earned District 9-6A first-team honors and competed for the Impact Gold National NTX 18U club team.
 
"Gabby brings a big bat and the ability to make an impact on the corners," said Coach Hooks. "She is a power presence offensively, and we are excited about what she will bring to our lineup. She is going to give us another exciting offensive weapon."
 
Addison King – OF – Allen, Texas (Allen HS)
King will look to be a threat on the base paths after stealing 98 bases in three seasons at Allen High School. She also batted .449 with 144 hits, 40 RBIs, nine doubles and six triples in her time with the Eagles. King also competes for Texas Glory 18U Gold travel ball team.
 
"Addie brings speed and athleticism to our roster," said Coach Hooks. "She gives us another dynamic option on the left side of the plate and will add valuable depth to our outfield. We love the athleticism and versatility she brings to our program."
 
Julia Montero – C – Round Rock, Texas (Cedar Ridge HS)
Montero has been behind the plate at Cedar Ridge High School. Last season, she batted .500 with 34 hits, 94 RBIs and 20 extra-base hits, including nine doubles, eight triples and three home runs. She then spent the summer playing for the Texas Bombers Gold 18U, where she hit .448 with 11 home runs, eight doubles and three triples. Defensively, Montero caught 10 runners stealing and picked off four more.
 
"Julia is a big, strong athlete who will add depth to our catching position," said Coach Hooks. "She has a plus arm and brings a physical presence behind the plate. We are excited to add her athleticism and arm strength to our catching group."
 
Isabella Serna – 1B/UTL – Poth, Texas (Poth HS)
Serna will arrive in Beaumont following her senior season at Poth High School. Last season, she helped lead the Pirates to a 28-8 overall record and a 9-1 mark in district play, capturing the district title. She batted .547 with 47 hits, 13 doubles, four triples and 47 RBIs. During her career at Poth, she earned recognition on the 2026 San Antonio Express-News All-Area Softball Team and was named the 2025 District 26-3A Offensive MVP.

"Bella is a strong, physical athlete who brings a big bat," said Coach Hooks. "We love her offensive potential and the power she can add to our lineup. She is another exciting addition to our team, and we look forward to seeing what she can accomplish in a Cardinal uniform."
 
Annelise Torres – UTL – Montgomery, Texas (Lake Creek HS)
Torres has been a key contributor for Lake Creek High School, helping lead the Lions to back-to-back state championships. Last season, she batted .390 to earn first-team all-district honors and helped guide Lake Creek to a 39-1 record, while being named to the UIL Class 5A Division II All-Tournament Team. Torres has found success on the national stage as well. In 2024, she helped lead Hotshots Fastpitch to the AFCS National Championship and earned Super Cup All-Tournament Team honors.

"Annelise is a tremendous defensive player with a great glove," said Coach Hooks. "She will provide much-needed depth in the middle of our infield, and we love what she brings defensively. She has the tools to make an impact in our program."