Softball team loses just twice in summer ball

The Madison County softball team rolled through its summer schedule, losing just twice while addressing its needs for next year.




The Raiders, 24-11 last year, wrapped-up their summer exhibition slate this past Thursday.

“We got to look at several different girls and hopefully answer some questions here in the summer so when we get (preseason practice) started Aug. 1,” 12th-year coach Doug Kesler said.

Madison County lost just once in the summer league schedule, which included games against North Oconee, Walnut Grove, Oglethorpe, Franklin, Stephens and Prince Avenue.

Madison County also played in a tournament in Greenbrier, going 5-1. Among the highlights were victories over Parkview, Cherokee County and Lakeside-Evans.

One area Madison County addressed this summer is shortstop. The team lost last year’s starter, Taylor Morgan, to graduation.

“We got to look at some different girls at that position, so we felt pretty good with what we got accomplished this summer,” Kesler said.

As far as pitching, Kesler said Erin Gibson enjoyed a strong summer.

“I thought Erin Gibson threw the ball well … I think she’s improved from last year,” Kesler said.

Summer work wasn’t limited to just the softball diamond.

Madison County got stronger as a team, literally, putting in time at the weight room.

“So hopefully, they got a little bit stronger, hopefully they gained a little confidence through that.”
Preseason practice starts Aug. 1, but Madison County will host a series of exhibition games the final week in July. North Oconee is the only confirmed opponent.