Inside the Cupboard
Jackson County can indeed be a little extra proud after this past week’s Dixie Softball World Series came to a close. Marianna Ponytails (11-12-year olds) took it all, brought home the World Series title.
But Jackson County wasn’t done – their Marianna Angels All-Star team shocked everyone, winning their first four games before falling in game five to move to the losers’ bracket.
Rest assured fans, there were no losers on that team. They played with grit, determination, and a will to win, just like they had watched their senior group do. They came back the next day to compete till the very last out.
Although the outcome wasn’t what they wanted, their heads were held high, and they were taught well how to lose with dignity and class. Out of 12 players, two had experience in this league, read that again – TWO!
I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait to see this group next year.
The spirit, the talent, and the drive is going to be present every game and the wins will follow. The Ponytails were fortunate to have six players with a boatload of experience, including having won a World Series in 2022.
They’ll be returning six players next year, so they will have a sound foundation to begin.
Taking into consideration the future of both of these teams, 24 girls, the future is bright for Jackson County when it comes to softball.
I am making plans to give it nine years before I hang up my keyboard and I can’t wait to type these names over and over, with wins followed by championships. I am more than confident there will be many and the players will be gracious winners as well as courteous losers on the games that don’t go as planned.
You can never predict the future with all the obstacles kids face. I asked a coach many moons ago about winning teams that didn’t carry over those wins to the high school varsity level. He said, “Two words, ‘Girls and cars’ – they are undefeated when it come to teenage boys. And folks, I believe he knew what he was talking about. The more options you have to choose from, the more divided your time will be. That’s when the choices become harder, especially if you have friends coming into the equation who don’t share the same likes in sports as you do. They may have a fishing or hunting trip planned, or maybe a trip to a watering hole and you have practice or a game scheduled.
That’s a lot of responsibility on a teenager to make what some may see as the right choice.
My money is on these girls for sure – I don’t know when I’ve seen two more dedicated, talented, and well-mannered groups come through and it is a pleasure to watch them perform.
If you haven’t had the opportunity, pick a front-row seat next year!