Lady Wildcats Add Versatile Standout Bailey Dunn to 2026 Softball Signing Class

MCKENZIE, Tenn. - Fresh off a standout high school career and years of competitive travel softball, Bethel University has added another talented student-athlete to its softball program with the signing of Bailey Dunn.

Dunn played her freshman and sophomore seasons at Shelbyville Central High School before finishing her junior and senior years at Moore County High School. She plans to major in Nursing at Bethel University.

The daughter of Brad and Chrystal Dunn, Bailey brings more than a decade of softball experience to the Lady Wildcats program. She began playing at the age of eight and has competed in school ball, travel ball, and tournaments throughout her career. Dunn played multiple seasons with Tullahoma Fusion across the A, B, and C divisions and also spent several years competing with Tennessee Blaze from 2023 through 2026. Over the years, she competed at the 12U, 14U, 16U, and 18U levels while also training for five years at Triple Threat Training to develop her mechanics, discipline, and softball IQ.

During her high school career, Dunn established herself as a multi-year varsity starter known for her leadership, communication, and versatility on the field. She balanced year-round softball with academic excellence, earning Honor Roll recognition all four years of high school while also becoming a member of the National Honor Society.

Her accomplishments on the field include earning Offensive Player of the Year honors during her sophomore season and receiving Honorable Mention recognition as a junior. Dunn credits her adaptability as one of her greatest strengths, particularly her ability to adjust at the plate based on pitch count and pitcher tendencies while consistently putting the ball in play in key situations.

"My biggest strength is my adaptability," Dunn said. "I try to bring energy, focus, and positive communication to every play."

While Dunn has enjoyed success throughout her softball journey, she is also focused on continuing to grow as a player and person at Bethel.

"I can be overly critical of myself when I make mistakes," Dunn said. "At Bethel, I hope to grow mentally by learning to reset quickly, build confidence, and develop stronger resilience through consistent coaching and structure."

Bethel head coach Craig Massey believes Dunn will make an immediate impact both on and off the field.

"Bailey is the type of player every program wants," Massey said. "She brings experience, leadership, toughness, and a tremendous work ethic to our team. What stands out the most is her love for the game and the energy she brings every single day. We are excited to see her continue to grow as a player and person here at Bethel."