Friends and family gathered at Patriots Park Tuesday morning to celebrate the members of the Columbia County 10U Softball All-Stars as they traveled to compete in the 2023 Georgia Recreation & Parks Association State Tournament at Sammy Haggard Park in Madison County.
The tournament began Tuesday and continue through Thursday, June 22.
“It’s an honor to represent Columbia County and all of these little girls that we will hopefully be watching for years to come,” said Head Coach Dawn Phillips. “It starts here with rec ball, where all the kids learn everything they are supposed to in softball. All are volunteer coaches. We don’t get paid. It is what we love to do, and we want to see these girls prosper.”
The players participating were chosen by their coaches and earned their all-star roster spot by demonstrating exceptional play and teamwork throughout the Columbia County Parks & Recreation Youth Softball League this spring season.
“It feels really good, and I was surprised when I made it because this was only my second season,” said Columbia County All-Star Carsyn Pike. “It is going to be really fun because my sister plays travel ball, and I have always been watching her and have wanted to play travel ball and be on all-stars.”
Many of the young players say they have never traveled to play softball in their young career and are excited for the tournament.
“It feels good to get to go play because I have never been far away to play softball,” said All-Star Carolyn Phillips.
On Tuesday morning, the Columbia County Recreation Department hosted a pep rally to recognize the players and send them off to the state tournament. Friends and family celebrated with many signs and words of encouragement before the tournament.
“Y’all have worked very hard to get here, and you should be proud of yourself,” said Phillips. “Now let’s go and win this championship.”
Christopher Rickerson, an Augusta University graduate, is a correspondent for Augusta Good News. Subscribe to the newsletter here.
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