Sumter bound

By By Todd Thompson, Hartselle Enquirer
Alabama will again be represented by three state champion Dixie girls’ softball teams from Hartselle when competition begins at the 2009 Dixie League World Series in Sumter, S. C. on Saturday.
The first time it happened was in 2007 when Hartselle’s Darlings (7-8), Belles (13-15) and Debs (16-18) earned the right to compete for a Dixie World Series title. In recognition of that achievement, the Hartselle league received an Outstanding Achievement Award from the state office. To top that off the Darlings went back in 2008 and returned home with the World Series title in their age division.
In the opening round of the double elimination tournament, Hartselle’s Ponytails are paired against Virginia in a 10 a.m. contest; the Angels will play North Carolina at the same time; and the Darlings will take on Arkansas at 11 a.m.
Watson said he knew the all-star team was going to strong on defense the first time they got together to practice.
Team members are Jada Hayes, Kelly Thrasher, Maddie White, Klyne Osborne, Hannah Jenkins, Hope Cain, M.J. Wooley, Riley Corum, Sydney Crow, Ali Forth, Callie Garner, and Anna Stinson. Working with Watson as assistant coaches are Greg Cain, Marion Burgess and Reggie Corum.
The Angels all-stars have been there and done that as far as the Dixie World Series is concerned, according to head coach Derek Parker.
Two members of the team are going back to the World Series for the third year in a row, and six of the all-stars will be playing in their second World Series.
What makes this team so competitive is their love of the game and desire to win,” he noted. “Every minute they’re on the practice field, they go full speed. We’re out there for over two hours each practice and they still don’t want to stop playing.
The Angels all-stars consist of Reagan Bowling, Kennadi Hogan, Calli Partlow, Rose Braun, Tori Blaylock, Gracie Poe, Lindsey Robinson, Courtney Blackwood, Reagan Martin, Kenzie Parker, Anna Mathis and Karly Agee. Assistant coaches are Danny Ikard, Tim Martin and Aaron Agee.
The Darlings, undefeated in postseason play, are returning to the World Series as defending champions. Two members of the 2008 all-star team are returning .
The Darlings consist of Hannah Grace Bevis, Chaney Dutton, Bailee Fincher, Emma Fincher, Paige Garner, Josie Halbrooks, Emma Hogan, Macie Holder, Alexis Rice, Carrington Standridge, McKenzie Worley and Natalie Zuck. Assistant coaches are Chad Bevis, Terry Zuck and Keith Halbrooks.