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TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE FORT MILL HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY SOFTBALL TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS FOR AN EXTRAORDINARY SEASON, AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM ON WINNING THE 2022 SOUTH CAROLINA CLASS AAAAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE.
Whereas, the South Carolina House of Representatives is pleased to learn that the Fort Mill High School varsity softball team of York County won the program's first state championship on Friday, May 27, 2022, at Blythewood High School against their competitors, the Lexington High School Wildcats; and
Whereas, fans of Fort Mill were treated to a thrilling spectacle as the Yellow Jackets rallied around their core group of seniors to capture the final game in a difficult best-of-three state championship series. Having lost the first game 8-0 after an underwhelming performance, the Yellow Jackets reasserted themselves in the second game as they came out swinging and took a 7-2 victory, which forced a third winner-take-all match at a neutral site; and
Whereas, in the final game, the Yellow Jackets defeated the Wildcats in undeniable fashion. Beginning the game, they capitalized on errors and took the lead 2-0 in the first inning. They then extended their lead to 3-0 in the top of the third inning and halted a potential rally by their opponent that left the score at 3-2 going into the fourth inning. They finalized their victory with one more run and textbook defense behind Maddie Drerup, who led the game from the circle. The Yellow Jackets ultimately defeated the Wildcats 4-2 by delivering both offensively and defensively when it mattered most against an excellent opponent; and
Whereas, the drive to capture their dream victory was an all-around effort led by the team's eight seniors; Ava Balsinger, Brynn Bartolini, Maddie Drerup, Olivia Poteat, Trista Reid, Sydnie Spears, Emma Tisdale, and Trinity Wall. Their wealth of experience and the bond they formed over many years playing together made the difference as they overcame the initial loss in game one together, rebounding to perform in spectacular fashion in both games two and three; and
Whereas, led by Head Coach Chuck Stegall, who is retiring from the game alongside this senior class, the Yellow Jackets proved that the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices they made along the way to perform at their very best, both as individuals and as a team, were well worth it in the end. A coach can ask for nothing more than the honest individual effort and support these young athletes gave to each other, from the beginning of the season all the way to the end in order to achieve the pinnacle of success in this sport, their program's first state championship; and
Whereas, it is a great pleasure to see success come to a team who has worked diligently to improve year after year and who has played with great sportsmanship regardless of their opponent. The seniors who led the way leave a lasting legacy and example for those who follow to aspire; and
Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives value the pride and recognition that the Fort Mill High School Yellow Jackets have earned for their school and their community and look forward to hearing of their accomplishments in the days ahead. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, recognize and honor the Fort Mill High School varsity softball team, coaches, and school officials for an extraordinary season, and congratulate them on winning the 2022 South Carolina Class AAAAA State Championship title.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Principal Gales Scroggs and Head Coach Chuck Stegall.
This web page was last updated on June 15, 2022 at 1:05 PM