Senior Class-y

By TJ MAXWELL

Cove Leader-Press

The Lady Dawgs’ eight seniors of 2015 helped establish the softball program as perennial contenders in District 12-6A and, on Friday, were honored for those contributions. “That’s a lot of softballs back there and that’s a lot of experience back there,” said head softball coach Bryan Waller, referencing the eight three-foot softball posters donning the eight seniors names. “You guys are going to be sorely missed. You’re a great family and that’s one thing, to me, that makes this program so special. They love each other and you can’t coach that. They don’t care who gets success. They just want to play ball, have fun and win.” Senior pitcher Carlee Duran was voted by her peers as the team’s Most Valuable Player. “She’s been a mainstay in the circle for the past two seasons for me and for coach Hays before me,” said Waller. “One of the most consistent players you’ll ever find. She’s a hard worker and does a great job of being a vocal leader as well as leading by example. Her skill was the big key to our success.” Seniors Veronica Marshall and Raelynn Morris-Utu were dubbed for the Battling Bulldawg award. “This goes to the person who, day in and day out leaves it all on the field, leads on and off the field and gets on to the girls when they’re not doing their thing,” said Waller. “Our girls selected two players.” Marshall was also named the team’s Offensive Player of the Year. “Veronica batted cleanup and was a consistent hitter throughout the season,” added Waller. Morris-Utu was also selected Most Improved by her peers. “What can you say about (Raelynn), except for the fact that she gives you everything she has everyday,” said Waller. “She had a mission this year. She wanted to be a contributor to the team and she was - and then some. A couple of her hits this year either won the game for us or got us going.” Senior Autumn Hughes was voted as the team’s Iron Man. “This is the one who will push themselves to the brink and fights through pain and any other adversaries throughout the course of the season,” said Waller. “And that player is Autumn Hughes.” Last, but not least, senior Angel Mullen was named Defensive Player of the Year for her efforts at catcher. “Going back to last year with Angel - she’s a person you have to find a place for on the field,” said Waller. “She was a consistent stick, a good leader behind the plate, tough as nails and a fierce competitor.” The three other seniors, Mia Gonzales, Rachel Jost and Zhianna Johnson also had huge contributions to the team and were recognized with all-district selections (see All-District story on this page). The eight seniors leave a lasting legacy but also leave a gaping hole at nearly every position and Waller is counting on his younger girls to plug those holes. Only junior Zoe Frizzell, sophomore Peyton Choate and freshmen Addie Cook will return next year. The fourth underclassman, junior Ariel Smith, is moving away. “These girls have their work cut out because nobody will ever be you,” Waller said to his senior class and those who will replace them. “This is a wonderful group of young ladies right here. There are a lot of spots to be had. They’re not going to be given to you, you have to go out there and earn it.” Tiffany Fairchild was voted as the junior varsity’s Most Improved while Katie Nelson and Marissa Williams were each voted the Heart award.