MEEKER | Meeker is home to the Meeker Stampede, three traveling softball teams for girls 12 and under, 14 and under, and 16 and under.
Last Saturday at home the 14U took on Montrose. The day was filled with good weather, good attitudes, and good competition between the teams. A few 12U players were able to contribute to the 14U team as well and their participation was crucial during these games.
Pictured from left to right, back row: Sophia Moody, Skylar Grimes, Aurora Stallings, Grayson Coryell, Jenna Pelloni, Maite Camargo, Kinnley Smith, Norah Loar, Iris Holmes, Avarie Caulfield, Kelsey Stroud (coach). Front row: Hannah Coryell and Sienna Rolen.
“The girls competed very well and learned a ton from these games,” commented head coach Kendal Bergman. “This group of girls continue to improve each practice and each game and also grow stronger as a team.”
The 14U have one last game in their season. They will play in Rifle on Tuesday, June 27 at 6 p.m.
The 12U will be hosting Craig once again on Friday, June 30, at the Meeker Rec Center softball field at 10 a.m. and noon.
“A huge shout out to the amazing coaches Ivy Coryell and Kelsey Stroud,” said Bergman. “They continue to lead by example with such positivity and great work ethics. These Stampede girls are learning so much from these amazing women and I’m so proud to be coaching with them. Also, another huge thank you to Ryan and Jake Phelan for being umpires for the games. We couldn’t have done it without them!”
The 16U Meeker Stampede headed to Brighton for the last games of their season. The team battled on some toasty turf fields and gained very crucial game experience. Multiple players got to play in different positions and show off their skills. After practicing hard the two weeks leading up to this tournament, they were also able to show off their swings and get very solid hits during the weekend. The biggest hits of the weekend included a grand slam from Ashlynn Ducey and a homerun by Ryann Mergelman. Both Addie Knowles and Kai Watson pitched over the weekend and these young pitchers handled the pressures of the game very well.
“The entire team played tough in all four games and this summer provided great opportunities for them to better their skills before the high school season starts back up in August,” commented Bergman.
“The 16’s have finished their season and I am very proud of how far we came in such a short season,” wrapped-up Bergman. “They learned from one another and grew together, which makes a coach extra proud. Their hard work and positive attitudes help build the team up. I couldn’t be more proud of these girls!”
The teams would like to thank Pedro Hernandez, Crandal Mergelman and Tom Knowles for their help and support, stating they have been instrumental in the development of these girls and the teams.
Lastly, all three teams would like to thank their sponsors.
“They allowed us to compete in numerous tournaments in style with our new jerseys and new equipment,” commented Bergman. “We could not have made this season happen without all of you!”
By Tiffany Jehorek | Special to the Herald Times
