The Polk County High School softball program held its annual awards banquet Thursday, June 2 at the school’s cafeteria. Coaches gathered with players, parents and fans to celebrate an outstanding season for the Lady Wolverines, as the team finished 18-6 overall and 10-4 in conference competition.
During the banquet, the program honored the team’s five graduating seniors, including Alicia Lockhart, Erica Painter, Kara Garvin, Cavin Richards and Hailey Champion.
Coaches Jeff Wilson, Jamie Thompson, Jerry Hensley, Meghan Horne and Phillip Miller also recognized their most outstanding players by handing out conference honors and special awards during the event.
Hailey Champion, who broke her ankle on the first day of practice, was unable to play during her senior season, but continued to provide her team with leadership throughout the year. Champion received recognition for her outstanding career, which included four years as a varsity starter and two years as an all-conference selection, as well as All-Area and All-District honors as a junior. The senior co-captain will receive Wall of Fame recognition for her achievements.
Jamie Hrobak earned a spot on the all-Western Highlands Conference team for the third time. The junior pitcher, who posted a record of 18-6 on the season, allowed just 26 runs in 137 innings of work for an ERA of 1.32. Hrobak, who holds the school record for career victories with 47, struck out 225 batters while issuing just 24 walks. The co-captain stood out at the plate as well, posting a .414 batting average while hitting safely in 22 of 24 games. Hrobak won the team’s MVP award and made the Region 8 State Games roster.
Alyssa Montgomery also pulled down all-Western Highlands Conference honors for the third year running. The junior co-captain hit safely in 22 of 66 at-bats for a .333 average, striking out just once in the year. Montgomery led the team in walks, recorded 12 stolen bases and earned the team’s Best Offensive Player award. She will join her teammate Hrobak in Winston-Salem for the Region 8 State Games on June 20.
Sophomore Cassie Couch and Freshman Brittany Jones both earned spots on the all-Western Highlands Conference team as well. Couch, who also earned the Coach’s Award, was praised for her performance at first base, as well as her ability to hit to the opposite field. The switch-hitting Jones also earned the Best Defensive Player award for her outstanding performance at second base.
Freshman Shea Wheeler earned the Rookie of the Year award, while Shalyn Brown took home a Coach’s Award. Yancy Pace and Alicia Lockhart were each presented with Wolverine awards for their unselfish play and team-first attitude.