The Maple Ridge Thunder just keep on rolling.
The peewee girls’ AAA softball team ran its record to 33-1, rattling off another seven straight on their way to winning a 17-team tournament in South Surrey last weekend.
Thunder’s Dave Hill said he is thoroughly enjoying coaching this team, made up of a mix of strong veterans and first-year players.
“The older kids have been excellent role models for the younger ones on our team, and all the kids play hard for each other as they really don’t want to let one another down,” said Hill.
The Thunder finished off the tournament with two straight shut-out wins, blanking Sardis 8-0 before winning the title with a 13-0 drubbing of Ladner.
Hill said the Thunder’s success is truly a team effort.
He said Megan Aird, Mackenzie Emerson, Jessica Foulds, Kale’a Gjaltema, Amy Hill and Carmen Partridge all played great in the field.
“We are very solid defensively, and with our pitching, as evidenced by 14 runs allowed over seven games at the tournament. I think the kids really take pride in playing strong defense.”
On offense, he said Emily Nobiss, Jamie Robinson, Cydney Turner, Chelsey Turner, and Codie Wright had a good weekend.
“It’s hard to single out just one player, the focus is on the team,” said Hill.
While talented on offense and defense, Hill said perhaps their greatest attribute is their humility.
“A coach of one of our opponents told me after our game that we had a very talented team, but more importantly, a very classy team, as well.”