September 11, 2010
Lady Wolverines Ranked Second in State
The target is on their back every time they walk on the field. Ranked number two in the A division of the state by the Georgia High School Association Coaches’ Poll, the Lady Wolverines softball team feels the pressure to win each game.
But, they seem to thrive on the pressure. The team has only lost one game–to Walnut Grove during an early season tournament. They seem to be running over region competition. Their first goal of winning the region championship seems to be in sight. Both pitchers, junior Lyndey McCurry and freshman Randee Bettis have pitched perfect games. The hitters have come alive, and the team is scoring runs. They are not, however, resting on their early success.
This weekend, the Lady Wolverines will face several challenges as they play in a local tournament with other ranked teams—all of whom are from larger schools. These games will be played at Veteran’s Park in Oconee County.
“We’re preparing ourselves for the rest of the season,” says Coach Theresa Bettis. “We’ll be playing against some better teams. We’re going to be challenged. This will help us as we move forward toward the state playoffs.”
Bettis credits the team’s seniors, Kellen Ford, Brie Floyd, Haley Thompson and Alex Bettis, with helping the team stay focused on their goals. And, she says, Kadijah Arnold and Kaley Garmon are hitting the ball and fielding their positions well. “Every game, someone steps up and helps pull us through adversity we may face. The experience we are getting is going to help us in the long run,” says Coach Bettis. “We may not always play our best each game, but good teams find a way to win. And, we’re a good team.”
Prince Avenue’s run to the championship ended earlier than they wanted last year, just one game shy of the Elite Eight. But getting that far in just the fourth year of varsity play is amazing for a team so young. “But now we know what success feels like,” says Coach Bettis. “And, we want to keep winning. We want to go to Columbus this year (site of the Elite Eight Championship games.)”