By Paige Nash
The Minden 8U Darling’s softball team took home the state championship in Pineville earlier this month and they are now headed to represent the entire state of Louisiana at the World Series to be held in Fairview, Tennessee this year.
“This group of girls for the most part have been playing together for 3 years now. This is their 2nd World Series appearance in 3 years,” said head coach Logan Hollingsworth. “They have poured blood, sweat and tears into the game and deserve this opportunity as much if not more than any group of girls out there. A year ago, we were having trouble simply playing pitch and catch, and now we are catching fly balls and almost turning double plays. It has been an unforgettable and very rewarding journey.”
The Team Minden now turned Team Louisiana is comprised of 12 girls: Laikyn Hollingsworth, Fallyn Hollingsworth, Aubrey Chanler, Willow Still, Laikyn Lewis, Lexie Perryman, Ellie Speer, Haper Barnette, Stella Perryman, Evie Vise, Annabel Sunderland and Brooklyn Sunderland.
This group of girls are currently 12-0 and have outscored their opponents 196-26.
“They mean the world to us coaches and well as their parents and want them to cherish this moment. Also, we strive to represent our great town of Minden,” said Hollingsworth. “The community has definitely come to our aid to help make this opportunity possible sponsorship wise and we greatly appreciate it.”
Under Dawgs Sports Grill held a fundraiser last Wednesday from 5 – 8. Partial restaurant sales between those hours went towards travel expenses for the new Louisiana Team. They raised a total of $692.37
The team is also holding a Hugh Wood Meat Raffle. Tickets are $2 each and the winner will receive (2) 8-ounce sirloins, (4) 12-ounce New York strips, (4) 14-ounce ribeyes and (10) hamburger patties.
The tournament will begin with a banquet set for Friday, July 28 with games kicking off the following day.
