The Clarksville softball team handled the adversity of a more challenging schedule with a competitive spirit and a united culture, and was crowned Class 1A state champions for the second time in program history. The Indians played 11 games against opponents from bigger classes, and went 8-3 in those games. Their most notable wins were against #10 (2A) Beckman Catholic, #7 (2A) West Fork and #12 (3A) Atlantic. Head Coach Katie Burman.
“We really stacked up our schedule at the end of the season, hoping that we were ready for anything in regionals,” says Burman. “I think that really helped to know that we can either beat or hang with some bigger schools. I think that really means a lot. Then getting down to the state tournament knowing any 1A team we face, we have a chance against.”
Among the players that helped the team earn the state crown were IGCA all-state selections senior Claire Lodge, senior Emmalee Manwarren, junior Paige Kampman, junior Sydney Lovrien, junior Hannah Wangsness and eighth grader Catelynn Lodge. Burman on the recognition.
“I’m so proud of them. I don’t think we’ve ever had more than three or four on all-state. To have six is huge. I knew these upperclassman were very special and talented. For them to get that recognition means a lot. Then Cate Lodge, an eighth grader coming up, that just gives us so much hope for the future. Hopefully that really gives her a lot of confidence. I’m so proud of all six of those girls for making the all-state team because it’s really tough.”
Lovrien was locked in, in the circle with a 1.52 ERA and 185 strikeouts. Manwarren hit a sizzling .536 avg to lead the team and Kampmann came in clutch with a team best 59 RBIs.
Clarksville concluded their championship season at 31-4.
