Prestonsburg, Ky. — Johnson Central ( 27-9 ) scored five runs in the bottom of the first inning and went on to beat Lawrence Co. 13-5 to win the 15th Region softball tournament Wednesday at Stonecrest Sports Complex.
7th Grader Jada Patton had a big bases loaded double that scored two runs in the 15th Region title game.
Gracie Preece singled twice, had one RBI and scored once, Bree Jones singled twice and scored once, Jada Patton had a two RBI double, Abby Nelson singled, Kensley Feltner, Jaylee Maxie and Allie Triplett scored a run each.
Taylor Blevins was the losing pitcher after tossing six innings.
15th Region All-Tournament Team
Most Valuable Player: Mayson Delong, Johnson Central
Laney Bledsoe, Paintsville
Caroline Brown, Pikeville
Mia Queen-Gilliam, Floyd Central
Chloe Hannah, Pike Central
Kyra Looney, Shelby Valley
Lilly Blackburn Shelby Valley
Molly Fahm, Belfry
Natalie Fite, Belfry
Bree Jones, Lawrence County
Taylor Blevins, Lawrence County
Abby Nelson, Lawrence County
Keylee Blair, Johnson Central
Randi Delong, Johnson Central
Adyson Burchett, Johnson Central
Maddie Vaughn, Johnson Central
The Dawgs finished the season 27-13 and lose Ella Fitzpatrick, Kensley Feltner and Allie Triplett to graduation.
Johnson Central advances to the state tournament and will face the 9th region champion on Thursday June 1st at 11:00 am in Lexington.
Lawrence Co. Head Coach Kenny Horn
COACH’S COMMENTS
“… By most accounts 27 wins is a great year but I felt this team had more in them. I do appreciate all the hard work and dedication that the players, coaches and parents put into this year. All the business donations and community support makes this possible.”
“… There is a lot of talent here and plenty on the way so there will be many more 25 plus win seasons around the corner. With the new building and locker room, LC softball will be at the top of the class when it comes to facilities in the state. Hard work always pays off and this will make it much easier all across the board.”