The Burke Stars 12U softball team dedicated the game to a fallen local child, and did they ever produce in the clutch.
The local all-star squad battled back from the brink of elimination to win the 2011 Tar Heel League State Softball Tournament on Sunday at Catawba Meadows thanks to a pair of wins over Johnston County, 18-6 in the opener and 13-11 in thrilling style to seal the deal.
“The nine-inning championship game was one of the most exciting softball games I have ever witnessed, as a coach, parent and spectator,” said Burke coach Garrett Kelly.
“The team dedicated the state title in memory of Rocklin Pritchard, the two-year-old boy that drowned on Day 1 of the tournament. The girls knew the family and had Rocklin on their hearts heading into the final game.”
Facing elimination in the opener, Burke cruised. Then came a tense moment in the sixth inning of Game 2.
Johnston had the bases loaded with only one out in the sixth inning (of a scheduled six-inning game), and had the chance to take the state title back home with them if they scored one more time.
But the Stars turned a double play, ending the scoring threat and extending what proved an epic final game that wouldn’t end for four more frames.
At the plate, Burke’s Lauren Maynor finished the tournament 7 for 11 with six runs and four RBIs, while Myra Twitty was also 7 for 11, tallying seven RBIs and five runs on four doubles.
Other Burke offensive leaders for the event included Micaela Queen (4 for 10, four RBIs, three runs), Aleah Royal (4 for 10, four RBIs, two runs), Mikayla Kelly (4 for 6, two runs, RBI), Jordan Hawk (4 for 8, three runs, three walks), Taylior Cannon (3 for 7, four runs, two walks, RBI), Jordyn Propst (3 for 11, two runs, two RBIs) and Candice Kelly (five walks, three runs).
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