A look back at an incredible year in Lady Royals Softball
The season started off with lofty goals. Have a winning season? Expected. A district championship? Expected. Make the playoffs? Better happen. These goals were self-imposed by the way. But truth be told, the 2014 Lady Royals softball team actually had only one goal and that was to win the class 1A state title. It has been said that when making goals, one should shoot for the moon, because even if you come short of your ultimate goal, you will still be among the stars. That is, in effect, what this year’s softball team did. They did not settle for anything except greatness. They would not tolerate anything less at practice from each other either. The players and coaches pushed each other all season to the limits, getting the most out of one other, while posting a 24-4 record along the way and being ranked #1 in the state back in March.
In a season that had way more ups than downs, maybe that’s why Saturday’s loss in the state championship still feels surreal. Almost like it didn’t happen. Down 5-2 with two outs in the 5th, all the Royal faithful just knew we would take the lead for the first time in the game. I mean, why not? Think back to the last two playoff games? All the damage done to Port St. Joe in the Regional Championship game was done with 2 outs. The Lady Royals scored 7 runs on Bell with two outs. However, this time was different. It just wasn’t meant to be.
This year’s softball team shouldn’t hold their head down though. They should be proud. Proud in knowing what they accomplished. Proud in knowing what they mean to each other and how much fun they had along the way. The memories that no one can take away from them. Proud in knowing how much this community was pulling for them and rooting them on all the way to state.
Winning season? Check. District champs (again)? Check. Make the playoffs? Of course. Regional Champ? Yup. State Runner up? Uh huh.
With a strong nucleus coming back on next year’s team, there’s no reason not to expect the same goals. The team will miss the seniors as they go on to do great things in the community. They’ve been great leaders and influential to the team’s success through the years. They’ve helped make 2014 a special year for Lady Royals Softball. But, who knows. 2015 may be the most special of all.
Great job Lady Royals and Coaches. We are proud of you!
