HIGH SCHOOL-KENTUCKY

NCC softball matures through postseason run

Adam Turer

Newport Central Catholic put together the kind of performances that win softball games in the postseason. Unfortunately, tremendous pitching and nearly flawless defense was not enough.

The Thoroughbreds lost two heart-breakers, first the 36th District championship to rival Highlands then the Ninth Region opener to Conner, ending the season 18-11.

NewCath freshman pitcher Haley Meyers allowed just one hit in the season-ending loss to Conner, but it was one hit too many. The Cougars won, 2-0, ending the Thoroughbreds' season with a two-out, two-run double, and damage-control pitching. NewCath was able to tally six hits, but could not string them together for a rally. That painful loss followed the 36th District defeat at the hands of Highlands. The Thoroughbreds bid for a third straight district title fell short with a 2-1 loss at the hands of the Bluebirds, the eventual Ninth Region champion. As difficult as those losses were to swallow, it gave NewCath a glimpse into the program's bright future.

"This team is capable of beating anybody," said head coach Denny Barnes. "I am really, really pleased with them. They showed that we could play with anyone."

The Thoroughbreds graduate just two seniors, Molly Mertle and Taylor Burkart. Their leadership will be missed.

"The biggest thing I'll miss is their personalities," said Barnes. "They were just good people and they cared about their teammates."

Meyers was a revelation in her first season as starting pitcher. She was helped by her teammates, especially catcher Kristen Schreiber.

"Our junior catcher really brought her along," said Barnes. "She took control and took her by the hand and led her along."

When she struggled or looked like she was going to unravel, her veteran teammates calmed her. By tournament time, Meyers was pitching with the composure of a sophomore. With a full season under her belt, expectations for 2015 will be high.

"At times, she showed signs of being a freshman. The older girls took her under their wing," said Barnes. "She grew up a lot in the district game against Highlands."

The hope is that there will be more time and availability to practice hitting next season. The Thoroughbreds' batting average was down 60 points this season, said Barnes. The Ninth Region All "A" Classic champions had several key victories this season and battled against some of the top teams in the region. The All "A" state semifinalists proved that they can compete with anyone, if they can just bring their bats around.

"I hope it taught them a lesson of how well they can play," said Barnes. "We need more dedication, and we have to work harder."