A Moore County Parks and Recreation softball team is not only making history but also living out a dream. Athletes who step on the diamond dream of making it on the All-Star team and playing in the World Series.
The Moore County 12U Ponytails Fastpitch Softball All-Star team will make that dream come true later this month. This will be the first time a Moore County Parks and Recreation team will compete in the World Series.
After their season in May, league coaches selected two to four girls from their teams to represent the county. After the selection, head coach Megan Jackson completed the roster.
“I must select girls who I believe will form the most balanced team. The girls ultimately came from five different rec teams,” said Jackson.
Last season marked Jackson’s debut as head coach for the 12U all-stars. The team won districts and competed at state but did not make it to the World Series tournament.
“My ultimate goal in coaching for Moore County Parks and Rec is to develop the sport of softball in our county. I want to grow a competitive passion with these girls so that we’re seeing new girls give the sport a try,” said Jackson.
Top-level teams must excel and bond together.
“I knew we had the talent. But it takes commitment from the girls and parents to develop a World Series caliber team. This group did not instantly bond, if I’m being honest,” said Jackson.
To help the girls bond, the team mom, Jordan, set up team bonding outings. The team and coaches engaged in diverse activities, including bowling and visiting the splash pad. These outings were in addition to their four practices a week.
“Still, the girls struggled to communicate and get to know each other. However, battling through the district tournament at Hoke County, where the girls earned themselves the Sportsmanship Award, created an unbreakable bond,” said Jackson.
The team first competed together June 14-16 in the district tournament in Hoke County. They qualified for state and traveled to Bessemer City on July 6-9. The team finished runner-up, qualifying them for the World Series.
“The girls are proud of that feat but are still hungry for more. Losing in the championship game to Bessemer City, defending World Series Champions, made them realize they have what it takes to compete with anyone,” said Jackson.
The World Series double elimination tournament will be the last this team will play together. They will travel to East Ouachita, Louisiana, July 26-31, representing North Carolina and competing against the other states vying to be named “Dixie Softball World Series Champions.”
The team is also looking for assistance with new uniforms and other costs. The new uniforms will represent not only Moore County but also North Carolina.
“We are doing a 50/50 raffle; tickets will be sold during ball games at Hillcrest Park in Carthage on July 16 and 18 at a table set up by the concession stand. Donations are also being accepted,” said Jackson.
You can also donate on their GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/ae00b979
Businesses that wish to donate $1,000 or more will earn a one-year sign with their desired logo at Hillcrest Park.
For more information, please click on the link: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/oQNYiy6XFbvMGBQe/?mibextid=WC7FNe
Team Roster:
Kai Battle: #10 OF
Macy Bernier: # 12 P, INF
Jade Clark: #2 P, INF
Lydia Clark: #11 INF
Bella Foushee: #00 C
Annalee Harman: #17 OF
Brynlee Jackson: #14 UTIL
Carrie Meacham: #4 UTIL
Amelia Whitaker: #7 1B
Kendrick Williams: #13 UTIL
Manager: Megan Jackson
Assistant Coaches: Melissa Cellamare, Melody Moore
Feature photo: Moore County 12U Ponytails Fastpitch Softball All-Star team-Contributed photo.
~Written by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Curtis Self. Curtis has been writing for Sandhills Sentinel since 2019.
