Wild Thangs win state title
The Wild Thangs, a 14-and-under fast-pitch softball squad, have a catchy nickname, but more importantly, they've got some talented players.
The Wild Thangs also have a state title, and the squad now has its sights on bigger thangs.
The local travel teams will make another trip soon - the Independent Softball Association World Series later this month in Florida.
The Wild Thangs won the state title in late June by outscoring their opponents 32-6 during the four games in Jefferson, Ga.
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"We pretty much dominated the tournament," coach Jim Borum said. "It was such a team effort, with everyone in the lineup coming through for us, it was an awesome experience. The coaches feel real good about our chances in the World Series. This team is legitimate."
The Wild Thangs fast-pitch softball team are Brittani Turner (front row, from left), Kacee Camp and Maddy Crawford, bat boy Graham Crawford (center); assistant coach John Turner (middle row, from left), April Schofield, Cayla Hale, Tiffany Blackburn, Austin Long, Liz Wolf, Jessi Borum and assistant coach Mark Schofield; and head coach Jim Borum (back). Not pictured is Tiffany Nichols.
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Tiffany Blackburn went on a tear at state for the Wild Things, posting a .583 batting average and a .917 slugging percentage during the tournament.
Also leading the way on offense were Jessi Borum (.500 batting average), Maddy Crawford (.414 on-base percentage) and Austin Long (.500 batting average).
Pacing the team on the hill were pitchers Austin Long (2-0, 2.25 earned run average) and Cayla Hale (2-0, no earned runs allowed).
Tiffany Nichols scored two big runs in the opening game at state, but was injured on a play at the plate. She tried to re-enter the action in the subsequent game, and although she re-injured her knee, the effort inspired her teammates to the title run.
Kacee Camp also stepped up for the Wild Thangs. The Harlem Middle School student was moved to shortstop, and made some key plays on defense.
Brittani Turner, meanwhile, set the table with solid hitting at the No. 2 slot in the order, and also contributed leadership and great play at second base. Liz Wolf and April Schofield both came through with timely hits and solid defense in the outfield.
The Wild Thangs will compete in the World Series in Polk County, Fla. on July 17-22, but a little off-the-field help is needed. The team is seeking sponsors to defray costs for the event. Contact coach Jim Borum at 860-9489 or 284-5483.