Benton High School softball coach Michelle Owens now has had to scrap her alternating pitcher plans twice.
Yet, the Lady Tigers remain undefeated at the halfway mark of District 1-4A play.
"(Jeri Bob Wilson) and Bailey Woodward alternated pitching last year," Owens said. "That was our plan this year, but Bailey got hurt in Longview and Jeri Bob's really stepped up and really taken charge this year."
Wilson was dominant while Woodward was injured, stringing together shutout after shutout. Then, two weeks ago, Wilson pulled ligaments in her right ankle, leaving her unable to pitch.
Woodward returned to the circle and kept the Lady Tigers rolling.
"Bailey just stepped right back in and didn't miss a beat," Owens said. "If Jeri's not going, Bailey's right there. They're both wonderful leaders for the team. With either of them, we're OK in the circle."
The Lady Tigers' 24-8 record has as much to do with a group of seven seniors who have started since they were freshmen.
Catcher Brittney Naron and first baseman S.B. Youngblood have signed to play with Bossier Parish Community College while Naron recently was selected to represent the West in the state All-Star softball game.
The five other seniors are right fielder Katie Ell, designated player/second baseman Hannah Cherry, center fielder Laura Sattler, shortstop Sara Hale and third baseman/second baseman Ashley Jordan.
"These girls have set a tradition at Benton High School," Owens said. "They want to go out winners and lead the younger girls for next year. They're a special group of young ladies."
