Special to the Review
The Athens Review
LUCAS — The Athens Lady Hornets are getting the most out of their non-district softball schedule.
For the third time this season, the Lady Hornets faced a state-ranked opponent. This time, they faced the No. 2-ranked Lucas Lovejoy Lady Leopards and lost in a Tuesday matchup, 8-0.
“Even though this is a loss, we have succeeded in competing with another of the top teams in Texas,” Lady Hornets Head Coach Gary Qualls said. “This shows we are ready for district and are going to work hard for that district championship.”
Freshman Hannah Windham had another good outing, allowing 12 hits, striking out five and walking one. Junior third baseman Megan May and shortstop Taylor Watson each had three putouts and senior second baseman Shelbie Johnson had three putouts and a diving grab of a fly ball down the right field line that ended a big inning. Sophomores Haley Maxfield and Halei Gabbert were solid behind the plate and at first base. Senior outfielders Catherine Grymonprez and Delaney Herrington also put in great performances. Grymonprez made a running scoop of a single to left and shot the ball to home plate where Maxfield was waiting to catch and tag the runner out to end another inning.
The JV Lady Hornets beat Lovejoy, 8-2, on a good pitching performance by freshman McKenzie Parrish and good play by the defense behind her.
Over the weekend, the Lady Hornets won the consolation title at the TASO Tyler Tournament with a win over Palestine, the District 20-3A favorite.
Athens returns home Friday night to play host to the Kemp Lady Jackets. Game times are 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. The Lady Hornets JV is now 6-2 on the season, while the varsity is 5-6-2.
