The Adair County Junior League Softball team was recently crowned 2024 Junior League State Champions against teams from Henry County and South Laurel in their first year.
Before this year, Adair County did not have a junior league for softball. As there were no other teams around to compete against for the district title, the team advanced to state by default.
The state tournament itself was played at Henry County High School. In their inaugural match on July 10, the girls played Henry County and lost 5-12. As it was a double elimination game, however they were able to continue competing, though now on the backfoot. To win, they had to beat Henry County twice in a row.
Of course, they did.
The team made a comeback on Thursday, July 11, with back-to-back wins against South Laurel (7-6) and Henry County (14-6). The championship was secured on Friday with another win against Henry County, this time winning 10-9.
Coach Amanda Grant said of the team that, while they were confident, they were also, “nervous, of course, they always get nervous. But they kept their heads up… this group of kids has been together for years and years.”
And now with a State Championship under their belt, they continue to make memories together.
By Kenley Godby
kenley@adairvoice.com
