Lady Tigers looking toward state

The 2017 season was a very successful run for the conference-champion Lady Tigers softball team. With a 25-12 overall record, an 8-2 conference record and an Elite Eight appearance at the state tournament, coach Shawn Woods is excited about what 2018 will hold. “We play a challenging schedule that will provide several early tests,” Woods said. “We have great leadership returning and have several big games against district opponents, including Hector, Quitman and White County Central. We also play Rose Bud and Bald Knob, two of the best teams in 3A. Midland and Concord will prove to be tough opponents as well.” Senior Tylar Vernon is going to be a major asset for the Lady Tigers. She has committed to play next year at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, and Woods said Vernon is a key player at several positions. “Tylar Vernon is our most complete hitter. She led our team in numerous hitting categories last year,” he said. “She’s a patient and disciplined hitter who will take a walk and make a pitcher pay for her mistakes. She is the best catcher in the state. … She can completely shut down the running game.” Senior Summer Rains, junior Megan Whitworth, junior Katelyn Grayum, sophomore Kaitlyn Reed and senior Emma Thompson are also power hitters for the Lady Tigers. “They all have the ability to change a game with one swing,” Woods said. On defense, Woods has a solid team covering the field, he said. “Hannah Bourgeois covers a lot of ground at shortstop, and can reach balls nobody else can,” the coach said. “Shelby Jordan and Summer Rains are both outstanding in the outfield. Shelby stepped in last year as a freshman and did a great job for us. Summer has played numerous positions during her Lady Tigers career and turned out to be our best outfielder last year. Autumn Dale also does a good job with the glove.” Woods looks for the Lady Tigers to go all the way this year. “We expect to contend for conference, district, regional and state championships,” Woods said.