The Lady Lions softball team played its last game this week and honored its only senior on the team. The home game against Wellston capped a season that had a new coach, was beset with injuries, but had its bright spots despite a losing record.
Senior Sydney Jones was honored with flowers and nice words from the coach who praised her leadership and perseverance.
“My experience was amazing. I’ve never been so close to a group of girls in my high school career. It’s taught me how to be a leader and to power through the rough times,” she said.
She said being the only senior on the team taught her to be a leader and to not give up.
“It sucked knowing that most people knew us by the team that always lost or got run ruled; what I saw was a team that would keep fighting and enjoyed the sport even through all the bad.”
The closeness of the team and friendships are what Jones said she’ll miss most. “I’ll cherish that team for the rest of my life,” she said.
She is the daughter of Mandy and Tommy Jones. After high school, Jones plans to pursue her education to become a neonatal nurse.
Season Highlights
From the first game:
Sarah Bolner struck out the first batter; Kinlee Jones made an impressive jump-catch in centerfield; and first base Hannah Trenary caught a popped ball to get the third out.
In the first game of the doubleheader against Tonkawa, Kacie Bolner rocked in the field and at bat.
Kacie Bolner was the star of the first game. At bat, her three bunts and quick running allowed her to get on base every time she went to the plate.
In the field Bolner also shined; the first inning she stopped three grounders at shortstop and got all three outs.
Sydney Jones also had a good night that game.
Sydney Jones also had two good plays. She caught a fly in left field, and when a hard grounder flew past the infielders, she stopped it and threw home to keep Tonkawa from scoring.
And in the second game, the Lady Lions almost pulled off a win, with 14 runs to the Buccaneers 16.
In the home game against Watonga, Lindsay Kuhlman stunned the crowds with a 3-out inning.
She caught a pop fly in the first play. Then she stopped a grounder, tagged a runner and threw the force out at first base.
A supportive crowd followed the Lions throughout the season. Family, friends, teachers and fellow athletes. It’s always a great day to be a Lion. L
