Turned Up, a central Arkansas based team that includes Abby Staton and Tori Hernandez of Bryant, won the 18u B USFA (United States Fastpitch Association) World Series in Panama City Beach, Fla., last week posting a 7-0 record. Delaney Bono of Benton is also a member of the team. There were 36 teams from 11 different states participating.
“Our defense played very well committing only two errors through seven games and we hit the ball very well as a team,” said head coach Neil Hambrick. “The pitchers really threw the ball well all week. All 11 girls contributed to winning this championship.
“Abby played outstanding at second base with several defensive gems all week,” he added. “Tori was solid at third all week and hit the ball hard. Delaney was solid in the outfield and hit one out against the Ms. Tornadoes.
“We also won the 18u open division at the Pitch for the Cure in Springdale back in June,” the coach mentioned. “It is the largest fast pitch tournament held in the state.”
Team members, pictured above, are, front from left, Hernandez, Sarah Hayes of Batesville, Brittnay Gentry and Madelyn Poe of Beebe, Leah Thomason of Vilonia; middle row, Sara Squires of Bigelow, Bono, Mollie Keiffer and Haley Hambrick of Batesville, Autumn Russell of Greenbrier and Staton; back row, coaches Tony Russell and Neil Hambrick. Not shown, coach Randi Wilson.
