BY BRITTNI MCCOY
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — The Martin County Lady Cardinals played host to the Johnson Central Eagles for the 57th District tournament May 20 in Inez, where the Eagles prevailed 17-0.
Haley Robinson started off a string of hits in the top of the second inning for Martin County when she knocked a single to right field.
Sophie Harless belted a deep single to center to keep things going.
Freshman Mia Fields followed it up with another single past second base.
The Cards could not capitalize on a hot streak and failed to score.
The third inning was looking up for the Cards on a Bella Muncy single. She managed to steal two bases and reach third.
A hard hit up the middle from Keilan Jewell kept Martin County’s hopes alive after she reached second on a stolen base.
The Lady Cards could not take advantage of some hits and ended their season with eight wins.
Despite a disappointing conclusion, senior Addison Duncan had much to be thankful for.
“This softball season has been great, thanks to the incredible coaches we were blessed with,” Duncan said. “[Head coach Boo Newsome and assistant coach Robin Newsome] took a chance on our program, and I am so glad they did.”
The Hall of Famers stepped in to coach at the beginning of this season.
“In just one year, they have transformed our team tremendously by organizing team trips, providing new equipment and fostering a supportive and confident environment. Their impact will be lasting, teaching me lessons I will carry forward,” Duncan expressed.
The senior will be attending Morehead State University to pursue a career as an occupational therapist.
She continued, “Even though I won’t be a Cardinal anymore, I know the coaches will always have open arms for me and support me no matter what. I am so excited to see what they do with the program in the future and wish them the best.”
Coach Boo Newsome spoke highly of Duncan and senior Brooklyn McKenzie.
“Our seniors have been great,” Newsome said. “I couldn’t have asked for a better senior class for my first season. They have been great leaders and we will miss them a lot.”
Boo Newsome sees a bright future for the team.
“Our program can only go up from here,” she said. “We have a lot of young talent, and everyone got better throughout the season. We had some younger players step up and help us out, as well as our juniors and seniors who lead our team. It was a great season and we hope to use that momentum to build for next year.”