Pike Valley Lady Panthers 10 and under Designated Pitch Softball Team completed their 3rd straight undefeated season by claiming their 3rd Belleville City Recreation League Title.
2011 was a dream season for 10 year olds, Brailyn Carlgren, Mekenzie Ehlers, Tory Isaacson, Kinzey Langston, Gentry McGregor and Karisma Vignery. They started calling their coach in March; all of them had the same question “When is softball practice?”
This would be the final season of Designated Pitch Softball for these young ladies, and they had set a goal as a group. Pull off the most difficult feat in any sport, not only winning their 3rd straight title, but to go undefeated for the 3rd straight year as well.
Joining them in their quest were team mates from the previous championships, Brianna Sjolander, Jessica Jensen, Cajsa Carlgren, Taylor Swanson, Kaylee Bray, and Natalee Bray. And 4 new faces, Josiah Field, Kaylee Larson, NaNa Johnson, and Khloe Langston.
After a couple of months of practice the team started the season in June, winning the first game of the year on the road. They then won 2 games at home, before finishing the season with 4 straight road wins and the Championship. Although many games saw 1 or 2 girls gone for different events over the summer the girls all pulled together and filled in to put together a memorable season winning all 7 games by at least 6 or more runs. They even managed to turn a double play or two during the season. They learned how to work together in a run down or “Pickle”, although unsuccessful at getting the runner out, they were all very excited that they knew how to do it. Everyone hit the ball very well, with all girls scoring at least 8 runs apiece. Knocking coach down with a line drive always brought a smile to their faces.
Their coaches were, Troy Isaacson, Bob Sjolander, Allison Carlgren, and Brandi Bray
Coach Isaacson was often overheard telling anyone who would listen, “These young ladies make my job as a coach easy, they always come prepared to learn, and have fun playing softball. They have been a joy to coach and I really appreciate how they help each other with everything, and play so well as a team. We try to emphasize that in the beginning, and these girls have really bought into that. I hardly ever see them squabble on or off the field. They truly are a Team and for the most part I believe they are all friends as well. Of course a lot of the credit for their success should go to their parents and even the grandparents as well, getting them to practice and games, playing catch or throwing batting practice, all this is made possible through their hard work and dedication to the kids. We will definitely miss the leadership of the 6 girls moving up to Junior girls next year, but with the valuable experience the other 10 girls gained and a few new faces as well, coupled with the desire and talent they have, I know we can be just as successful next year. Go Lady Panthers!”
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