The Choice Properties Real Estate 10U softball team showcased determination, grit, and resilience Monday at Lions Park, battling through the losers’ bracket with two impressive victories over Kenton #1 to claim the Bronze Bracket Championship.
Representing the West Liberty-Salem Ball Association, Choice Properties found itself in a difficult position after suffering an early tournament loss to the same Kenton #1 team. Faced with elimination, the squad responded in championship fashion.
In the opening game of the day, Choice Properties earned a commanding 9-3 victory behind a dominant pitching performance from Emerie C. The right-hander struck out 15 batters over six innings, allowing just two hits without issuing a walk.
The offense provided early support, taking the lead in the first inning with singles from Alayna L. and Hadley R. Amelia F. added an infield single in the second inning to keep the pressure on.
Alayna L. paced the offense by going 2-for-3 at the plate, while Hadley R. added an RBI. The team also put constant pressure on the bases, stealing seven bases to force a winner-take-all championship game.
The title game delivered plenty of excitement as Choice Properties rallied for a thrilling 9-7 victory to complete the comeback.
After trailing 4-2 entering the fourth inning, Choice Properties erupted offensively behind timely hits from Alayna L., Hadley R., Laiken D., and Peyton R. Kenton answered to tie the game, but Choice Properties regained the lead for good in the fifth inning when Emery L. delivered a clutch single, followed by patient at-bats from Alayne C. and Alayna L.
Choice Properties collected nine hits in the championship game, with Peyton R., Laiken D., Alayna L., Hadley R., and Emery L. each driving in a run. The aggressive offense continued on the bases as the team stole 10 bases, led by multiple steals from Winnie C., Hadley R., and Emery L.
Hadley R. started in the circle before Emerie C. came on in relief and once again dominated. Over five innings, Emerie struck out 13 batters while allowing just two earned hits, shutting down Kenton’s offense and sealing the championship victory.
The Bronze Bracket Championship capped an impressive tournament run for Choice Properties, as the team turned an early setback into a memorable championship by defeating the team that had previously sent them into the losers’ bracket.
The team also extends its sincere appreciation to season sponsor Choice Properties Real Estate for its continued support throughout the season and this championship run.
