JCCHS slow pitch heads for state tournament

The Jackson County Lady Panthers’ slow pitch softball team wrapped up area tournament play Thursday, coming away with a second place finish in the tournament as they prepare for state play this weekend.

State tournament play opens up Friday in Marietta, as the Lady Panthers face McEarchern at 4:45 p.m.


On Thursday, Jackson County came away with a 4-2 victory over Cherokee, their first victory against that opponent all season. They then moved on to face Kell, losing in a close 7-6 decision, but still moving on to the elite eight for state competition.

Team leaders on Thursday included Jessica Stevens, who went 3-7 with a triple and two RBIs; Angela Edge, who went 3-5 with three RBIs; Dana Borzo, who went 3-6 with one RBI, and Courtney Kitchens, who went 3-6 with one RBI.

The Lady Panthers enter state competition with a 15-10 record on the season.

It’s the ninth time in the last 11 years that the team has made it to the state playoffs. This year, the team reached that goal with only four of the 14-team members having played slow pitch last year.

“These girls work long and hard and are very dedicated to what they do,” said coach Clarke Rainwater. “ They represent JCCHS very well with class and character.”