STATE PREVIEW: Melissa sets out for historic appearance in state softball tournament

Having dropped only two games all season, the Melissa Lady Cardinals have blasted their way into the UIL Class 5A Softball State Tournament. VYPE DFW takes a look at what fans can expect going into this historic tournament appearance for the Lady Cardinals!

So Far:

Showcasing their talent against several tough opponents already this season, the team has made it their mission to take down any opponent that stands in their way. The team has allowed only 58 combined runs to be scored against them while scoring a whopping 369 of their own against opponents this season. With talent at the plate paired with a defense that doesn't quit, the team has shown that they are all gas and no brakes.

Led by the talents of Caigan Crabtree, Hutton "Lulu" Adrian, Kennedy Bradley, Emily Johnson, Amariee Bradford, Alex Starr, and other athletes, this squad has a focused effort that helped power them to several regular season victories including over the likes of Waxahachie (18-0), Crandall (21-0), Aledo (11-2), McKinney Boyd (7-0), McKinney North (22-1), Greenville (15-0), Sherman (11-0), and more allowing for a top-of-the-district finish with an 11-1 district record.

Into playoffs, the Lady Cardinals showcased poise and resiliency as they faced strong opponents in Ennis (15-0), Huntsville (5-1), Kingwood Park (7-6, 3-2), Frisco Wakeland (2-0, 5-0), and Forney (5-2, 4-0). As the team heads into the state tournament, they can be expected to play strong against Lake Belton.

What To Expect:

Lake Belton is also entering the tournament with a first-time appearance. The team has a 40-4 overall record and is looking to continue their historic season, but Melissa has been on a mission that won't soon be stopped. Fans can expect this team to continue their dedicated effort that will allow them to make incredible plays on the defensive end of the ball. Likewise, the offense is more focused than ever and can be expected to make timely and big hits right out of the gate as they begin their pairing with Lake Belton.

Be sure to catch all of the action! The game begins at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 31 at Red and Charline McCombs Field in Austin, Texas!