Zoë Mangrum '26 has been named the Albuquerque Journal Metro Softball Female Athlete of the Year, earning one of the highest individual honors in New Mexico high school softball following a dominant senior season.
The recognition comes after a remarkable year in which Mangrum established herself as one of the most feared hitters in the state while leading the St. Pius X softball program to continued success on the field.
A consistent force in the lineup, Mangrum delivered one of the most productive offensive seasons in recent memory. She finished the year batting .722 with 54 hits, 65 runs scored, 73 RBIs, and 15 home runs, while striking out only twice all season. Her combination of power, contact ability, and discipline at the plate made her a constant challenge for opposing pitchers.
Her excellence was recognized throughout the season as she earned District Player of the Year honors, First Team All-State selection, and New Mexico All-Star recognition. She has also signed to continue her academic and athletic career at Howard University at the Division I level.
Beyond the statistics, Mangrum’s impact was felt in the culture and standard of the program. Coaches and teammates consistently pointed to her work ethic, preparation, and competitive mindset as defining traits of her leadership.
St. Pius X softball coach Roni praised Mangrum’s complete impact on the program.
“Zoë is the complete package, an elite athlete, outstanding student, and exceptional young woman. Her faith, humility, and work ethic set her apart, and her impact on our program was immediate. She is one of the finest female athletes to ever wear a Sartan uniform, and I know she will continue to inspire young girls as she begins her Division I career at Howard University. This honor is incredibly well deserved.”
Mangrum reflected on the significance of the award and the journey behind it.
“Being selected for Metro Softball Player of the Year means so much to me. Being able to be recognized at one of the highest levels in the state softball rankings really makes all the extra hours on the tee or tennis ball backhands off the wall worth it. It is truly an honor to be picked and is an important reminder to me that all the hard work put in, on and off the field pays off. ”
With her senior season now complete, Mangrum leaves behind a legacy of production, consistency, and professionalism that helped elevate the St. Pius X softball program.
Being named the Albuquerque Journal Metro Softball Athlete of the Year places Mangrum among the elite student-athletes in New Mexico high school athletics and marks a fitting conclusion to one of the most accomplished seasons in program history.
Congratulations to Zoë Mangrum on this outstanding achievement and well-deserved recognition.
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This story was written by Joshua Griñe, Director of Enrollment and Marketing at St. Pius X School.
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