The Valwood softball program had a tough run last season, ending 0-12. This season the Valiants are determined to turn things around. They’ve already beaten last year’s record after winning their first game of the season, and the team is hoping to keep up a winning streak.
Head coach Courtney Carter explained that she has a lot set in store for the team this season. According to Carter, what they lacked last time was pitching, which is a vital part of the game of softball.
“We are constantly changing and altering the way we do things in order to perform at our maximum potential,” Carter said. “We can always improve and are always working to be the best we can be as individuals as well as a team.”
Carter explained that it was like a weight being lifted off her shoulders when they own the first game. She said they worked hard to accomplish that goal.
“We worked hard all summer,” she said. “It was great to see the hard work pay off. The enthusiasm coming from the girls made every hour this summer worth it.”
Having two powerful seniors, Braxton Hill and Blake Barnes, on the team this year definitely helped matters. The definitions of student-athletes, each girl strives both on the field and off of it.
“Braxton and Blake are both great students,” Carter said. “They hold themselves to high expectations on the field as well as in the classroom.”
Hill is currently batting .425 with three homeruns in eight games. Barnes is the team’s first baseman and is said to do splits to try and catch the balls.
“Hill’s reputation also brings her a lot of respect being behind the plate as the catcher,” Carter said. “Barnes is very vocal on the field and also our team leader. She keeps everyone straight.”
Both players attribute their hard work for this upcoming season to coach Carter.
“She definitely is a lot tougher; practice is long, and we are a lot more disciplined team altogether,” Barnes said.
“She encourages us to get along as teammates and friends,” Hill said. “Most importantly, she encourages us to do our best in every aspect of life, not just softball. She makes sure to tell us that softball is not forever, but character is.”
Valwood had their second game on Aug. 22 against Southland Academy and won 6-4. Their next game will be on Sept. 25 against Echols County. Let’s see if their winning streak will continue.
ITG / October-November / Valwood
Alex Dunn
Valwood Softball Program on the Rise
