Graceville Baseball is Showing True Grit
By: Shelia Mader
Graceville Varsity Baseball has had a tough but determined start to the season, showing heart and effort every time they take the field.
On March 5, the Tigers picked up a hard-fought win over Emmanuel Christian. The game was shortened to just two innings after rain moved in, but Graceville was ahead 3-1 when the game was called. Cameron Baxter handled the pitching duties, allowing just two hits and one run while striking out two and picked up a win. At the plate, Jaxon Burrell, Cameron Baxter, and Aiden Pelham each collected hits, while Burrell and Pelham added stolen bases to help spark the offense.
Just a day later, Graceville faced a tough Vernon squad. The Tigers managed three hits in the game, with Parker Brown doubling and Marquez Smith scoring a run. Smith also swiped two bases. Cameron Baxter and Jaxon Burrell shared time on the mound as the Tigers battled through a difficult outing against a strong Vernon lineup.
While the results have been mixed, the effort from these players has never been in question. Many of these athletes have waited years to have a baseball program back in Graceville, and they continue to work hard every day to represent their school and community.
The Graceville baseball program would not exist without the support and leadership of several people who believed in bringing the team back. A sincere thank you goes to former Coach and Principal Carlan Martin, Principal Kayla Wilson, and Coach Leroy Barkley for their continued support and guidance. Their commitment helped make it possible for these young athletes to once again wear the Tigers uniform and compete on the diamond.
Roster members include Aiden Pelham, Allen Cotton, Ansen Lucien, Brayden Jones, Brody Yates, Cameron Baxter, Cameron Bryant, Correll Faison, Darius Sims, Jaxon Burrell, Machai Weston, Marquez Smith, Parker Brown, Robbey Souza, and Skyler Deon.
No matter the score, the Tigers continue to show grit, determination, and pride in representing Graceville baseball.
