LONDON — North Laurel enters Friday’s Final Four matchup with Assumption calm, cool, and collected as the Lady Jaguars attempt to capture the Fastpitch program’s second state championship.
Coach Chris Edwards said his team has had a great demeanor during state tournament play, continuing not to look ahead while focusing on the task at hand.
“The girls have prepared pregame at batting practice and then when they get on site, they get themselves ready to play,” he said. “Their focus has been on the task at hand and even though they are very young, they follow the lead of the older girls and get themselves ready to play. I feel it is consistent to do the same things daily to get ready.
“It is the same during the games,” he added. “Even in the Boyd County game, facing our last three outs down four runs, the girls were remarkably calm, at least outwardly. There was no panic and you could see their confidence rise as girls started getting on base. Cool thing to see.”
The Lady Jaguars will need to continue to do the same when they face-off against the Lady Rockets on Friday at 3:30 p.m.
“Assumption has been really good for several years now,” Edwards said. “They play in the brutal seventh Region and they have lost in the region in one run games to the eventual state champions three of the last four years. They are battle-tested and on a mission of their own. They have a Western Kentucky commit that plays shortstop and is one of their better pitchers. They are a really good team.”
Edwards said for his team to win, he’s got to get a game-plan on how to attack Assumption, and playing solid defense.
“Of course and as always, we have to pitch and play defense,” he said. “Everyone probably gets tired of hearing me say it but if we don’t do those things well then it could be a long night. We also have to execute on offense. Bunts, take the extra base, all of the little things.”
Edwards is hoping his team continues to receive the fan support in Lexington that they have had the past two games during state tourney play.
“The support we have gotten from the local community has been amazing,” he said. “We had two different businesses and organizations buy meals for the team during our travels so far. We have gotten other donations of other items as well.
“Our fan base is always good but they really showed up last week,” Edwards added. “Our game Saturday against Boyd County was the second largest crowd of the tournament, so far. I know it may be difficult but I would like to see our part of the stands filled up again Friday. Everyone take the day off work and come to Lexington and support these girls.”
