Johannesburg-Lewiston Softball Prepares for State Quarter-Final
JOHANNESBURG, MI- A day away from their biggest game of the season the term loose would probably be the word to describe the Johannesburg-Lewiston Cardinals Softball team.
The Cardinals prepare to take on Hancock in the Quarters with a spot in the state Semi-Final on the line. The tight knit group has relied on team chemistry and positive morale to take them this far. ” It is all about the team dynamic.” said Senior Center Fielder Gloria House. “We all respect each other both on and off the field and it really pays off.”
For the past two years many of these Cardinals saw their seasons end at the hands of rival Hillman. This year the group finally got over the hump. Defeating Hillman 13-2 in the district final. The positive energy that this group focuses on was not seen in years past. ” I think it comes from cheering each other on and picking each other up.” said Senior Third Baseman Jocelyn Tobias. ” When we would play Hillman in the past we weren’t picking each other up when we struck out or made mistakes in the field.”
The coaching staff also has seen the impact of the district victory. “It was definitely a monkey off our back. Hillman bested us for two years.” said Coach Ryan Marlatt. “After that point I think our girls were able to relax and now we are having fun and playing well.”
Marlatt’s daughter Jayden has been the leader of the Cardinal squad. Throwing two complete games in the regional tournament and will be on the mound for the Quarter-Final. She also hit two home runs in the semi-final against Inland Lakes. The Cardinals have won 21 of their last 22 games and come into the Quarter-Final with a 29-3-1 record.
Johannesburg-Lewiston and Hancock battle at Sault Ste. Marie Tuesday at 5 PM. The winner will move on to Friday’s state Semi-Final. Which will be played at Secchia Stadium on the campus of Michigan State University.
