Lee Trawick
Reporter2@adrep1riverbendnews-org
The Hamilton County 16u Babe Ruth All-Stars softball team traveled to Lake City, hoping to compete for a state championship. The team proved early on Thursday, June 23, that they were the team to beat. Hamilton County opened the tournament with an 11-5 win in dominating fashion over the Christina D8 team. Then, as they geared up for their second game of the day, the Hamilton County All-Stars faced off against the Ocala Shockers. Throughout the game, Hamilton County showed they could withstand the pressure of an opposing team by standing tall until the end, defeating the Ocala Shockers, 5-4.
On Friday, June 24, Hamilton County faced off again with the Ocala Shockers. However, this time Hamilton County left little to chance, as they ran away with an 18-5 victory over the Shockers. Next up for Hamilton County was the Christina D8 team, where they continued their dominance by outscoring their opponents, 17-4. Despite a rain delay that forced Hamilton County to finish the game on Saturday, June 26, they were not fazed, as they did not take their feet off the gas pedal.
In the semi-final round on Saturday, June 25, Hamilton County found themselves in unchartered territory, trailing for the first time in the tournament, 0-2. Despite this, they would not give up or coward down; they stayed within their game plan and continued to fight. Then, as they forced the game into extra innings, momentum seemed to be on their side. It did not take long for the heavily favored Hamilton County girls to push the fifth and final run across home plate, securing the opportunity to play for the Babe Ruth State Championship.
In the State Championship, Hamilton County faced off again with the Christina D8 team. However, this time, they wanted to show everyone they deserved the crowning of State Champions. Entering the game, Hamilton County's defense had given up an average of 4.4 runs a game, but that trend would not last in the Championship game. Hamilton County played the best defensive game they had played the whole tournament. To reward themselves with stellar defensive play, the girls scored 15 runs, shut out their opponent 15-0 in five innings, and implemented the mercy rule. The Hamilton County All-Stars erupted, as they went through the entire State Tournament undefeated and outscored their opponents by a score of 70-22.
Leading the way for Hamilton County All-Stars was shortstop Emily Peacock, who collected nine hits with four doubles out of 20 at bats and played stellar defense. The power came from Mallory Blue who crushed a homerun in the championship game. Then maybe the most clutch hitter of the tournament proved to be Addison Morgan as she hit an in the park grand slam. The speed for Hamilton All-Stars was on full display as DeNyla Cherry hit two triples over the tournament. On the mound Hamilton All-Stars kept all of their arms fresh as they rotated many players to the mound, including Sarah Welch, Madelyn Jones, Gracie Carver, Blue and Cherry.
With a State Championship under their belt, their season is not done. They qualify to play in the Babe Ruth World Series in Treasure Coast, Fla., from Tuesday, July 19, through Thursday, July 28.
Perhaps the Hamilton County All-Stars softball team's biggest obstacle isn't an opponent on the field, but the financial burden off the field that will allow them to travel there and battle for a World Series Championship. The team has estimated that it will cost $14,000 to cover expenses over the 10-day tournament. Therefore, they are looking for donations and have created a GoFundMe page. As off now they are well short of their goal of $14,000. They have until Tuesday, July 12, to gather the funds.
"Our girls showed grit, determination, teamwork and discipline throughout the tournament," Head Coach Joanie Howell said. “They never let up and never quit. I am very proud of each of them and thankful for the support of our parents and community members. As we move on to the World Series, I have no doubt they will continue to push themselves to higher heights and represent our region in the best manner possible." She gives credit to her players and coach staff, saying, "Without them, none of this would be possible." She says thank you to her coaches, John Paul, Ragan Barnes, Wayne Peacock and Assistant Coach Jason Welch.
To donate and help the Hamilton County 16u All-Stars reach the World Series, visit www.GoFundMe.com.