AUGUST 26, 2018
THE HEAT
Middle row: Emalynn Kitts, Brooklyn McCoy
Top: Reagan Stepp, Millie Sammons, Addison Slone, Addalyn Woods, Jada Patton, Alexis Crum, Aleaha Gillispie, Lexi Frasure, Abigail Kehler
Coaches: Rick Sammons, Kevin Slone, Brandon Kitts, Shawn Crum
“Playing like a girl” doesn’t mean what it used to…just ask Rick Sammons. This veteran coach and his LC Heat 8U girls softball team finished up summer league play on Saturday with an 18-7 win over Flatwoods.
In 2017 Rick and his coaching staff, along with several dedicated parents and players, formed one of Lawrence County’s first ever 8u travel softball programs.
“In the beginning we simply wanted more playing time for our girls after regular season in Louisa ended. The girls weren’t ready to hang up their hats and the parents felt like these girls were just getting started” says one parent. “Our first season was a learning experience and we struggled, but came back in 2018 with the confidence and ability to dominate.”
And that’s just what they did.
The Heat ended the 2018 summer league at Boyd County Optimist Field with an impressive 8-3-1 record.
“This is a great group of girls and I couldn’t be more proud of how hard they have worked and how far they have came in one year. Future State Champs, I guarantee it.” says assistant coach Shawn Crum.
This talented group not only ended with a winning record, they also left an impression on coaches all over the tri-state. 5 girls out of the 13 player roster have been chosen to play for the WV Dusters travel softball program based out of Huntington, WV. These girls will go on to play the 2018-2019 season among some of the top teams in WV, OH & KY, potentially making it to next year’s World Series.
“In 35 years of coaching both boys and girls, I have never seen so much talent on one team” says Coach Rick. “Every girl on this roster has the ability to be a top player in KY softball. At such a young age, they are already ahead of the game. I love each of these girls as my own and can’t wait to watch them grow as players….The future of Lawrence County Softball is bright and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
