It has been a long time coming for the Sanger Lady Indians softball team, but the squad punched their ticket to the UIL Class 4A State Tournament this season after incredible shows on the diamond through regular season play as well as the playoffs. What can fans expect from this squad as they prep for the state semifinals?
So Far:
Posting a 38-7 overall record so far (with an undefeated 8-0 district record), the Sanger Lady Indians have had no trouble putting hard work to the test this season. With incredible non-district victories over the likes of Pottsboro (10-0), Fort Worth Trimble Tech (17-0), Alvarado (11-0), North Crowley (21-0), and more, it was clear from the start that Sanger had something special brewing this season.
As the team carried their nearly flawless play into district, the Lady Indians were sure to continue their hot streak as they defeated Wichita Falls (16-0), Wichita Falls Hirschi (17-0), Gainesville (15-0), Burkburnett (6-3), and more to seal their top-of-the-district finish and an undefeated record-- allowing only four runs against them from their district opponents.
Working their way into the playoffs, there was zero doubt at the plate or on the field from this squad. Kyley Cochran, Emily Wells, Chelsea Walton, Dalilah Millan, Lily Wilson, Abby Chapmond, Piper Lindlau, and other talented athletes continued to put in the work necessary that would guide them to strong victories in their playoff series as they sent home Springtown and Stephenville in back-to-back two game series before defeating Krum and Dumas in three games each. With only Pampa standing in their way to the state tournament, the Lady Indians recorded two strong wins and punched their ticket to the state semifinals!
What to Expect:
As the team heads into the playoffs, it is clear that they have a hunger and drive like no other. In the program's second appearance (last one being in 2001), Sanger is guided by head coach Toby Kloewer and assistant coaches Ashley Hedrick and Jeremy Harvey. The team will face off against the reigning 4A champions-- the Calallen Lady Wildcats-- who are looking to secure a repeat at state this season.
With a tough squad boasting a 32-2 overall record, Calallen is going to be difficult to beat, but Sanger shouldn't rule themselves out just yet. The team has showcased their ability to overcome challenges more than a handful of times this season and with their poise combined with grit and determination, fans can expect Sanger to put up a fight from the very beginning with the goal of securing a state finals appearance.
Be sure you catch all the action as the series begins Thursday, May 30 at 4 p.m. at Red and Charline McCombs Field in Austin, Texas!