The Marion softball program has a rich tradition and history of excellent players over the past 30 years, but it is very possible that the most productive player from Marion will wind up being Kayson “KBelle” McClain.
McClain, who’s earned all-state honors in each of her first three varsity seasons at Marion, signed to continue her softball career on Wednesday at Florida Atlantic University.
“I feel very overwhelmed, but also very excited,” said McClain. “It’s just so eye-opening to see how many people support you no matter what.”
“KBelle is rare because she loves the work; she really can’t get enough,” said Marion head softball coach Drake Rowton. “More than once, she has played two games early on a weekend, drove six hours home, and then come up to the facility to lift, hit, just do whatever. She has a crazy work ethic. She helps the younger ones, gives them advice, and she’s a part of the community. She’s just a one-of-one.”
McClain ranks in the Top 5 in most offensive categories for Marion softball, and she currently is first in program history in runs batted in (RBI), batting average, on-base percentage, and doubles, with her senior year still to come in 2027.
“All that means a lot to me, and I’ve always wanted to leave a mark here,” said McClain. “It’s important to me to help your teammates, pick them up if they’re down, and always want to become the best possible version of yourself.”
McClain joins a stout Florida Atlantic program that has tallied five consecutive winning seasons in the American Athletic Conference, including a 34-20 mark in 2026, all under Marion native and MHS alum Jordan (McElroy) Clark.
“She and I have a great relationship, and I think she pushed harder recruiting me because we are both from the same place,” said McClain. “Being able to play for someone like her, and in a place where I’ve always wanted to be, is so, so exciting.”
McClain is one of eight signees to Florida Atlantic as part of the Class of 2027, and D1Softball.com ranks the Owls’ latest effort No. 35 in the country.
“Kayson is dynamic, spunky, and one of the more passionate players we have recruited,” said McElroy, via statement to FAUSports.com. “She loves softball and wants to be the very best. She is the loudest and always makes a game-saving play or hits the winning double off the wall.”
McClain has primarily played shortstop, catcher, and pitcher at Marion and at FAU “if you hit, then you’re in the lineup,” said McClain. “I’m willing to do anything to help my team and win.”