Jackson selected for 2A all-state softball team

By COSMO COSSEY

Sports Connection Team

Claire Jackson of BIC was selected to the Class 2A All-State after helping lead the Lady Mustangs to a 13-11 overall record and a 9-3 record in the 2A-3 conference.

Lady Mustang Claire Jackson throws the ball to first an out from her short stop position during game action this past season. (Photo by Cosmo Cossey)

“Since I didn’t start playing softball until the 9th grade, I can honestly say that being chosen for all-state is both incredible and unexpected! I love this game so much and playing softball has been the biggest gift. I have been so fortunate to play for the Lady Mustangs and for Kraken (travel team),” Jackson said.

Jackson batted .538 this past season with a .662 OBP. She collected 28 hits on the year while scoring 27 runs with 18 RBIs. Jackson drew 18 walks and stole 12 bases for the Lady Mustangs.

“I can’t express how grateful I am for Coach Tyler Herring and Coach Chad Broadway. They have taught me the game, challenged me and believed in me. Being named all-state is an honor I will forever be proud of!” Jackson added.

BIC head coach Tyler Herring had nothing but praise about Jackson. “Claire was an absolute blessing to coach. She started slapping half-way through her ninth-grade season. She finished her first season hitting .133. I gave her a vision for the success she could have by her senior year and she became a student of slapping and a student of the game, Herring said. “Her work ethic gave her the opportunity to be noticed by others and I’m so proud of her for what she accomplished. Between being a great kid, being valedictorian of her class, and being an anchor in our lineup both offensively and defensively, she is about as irreplaceable as they come. I will miss having her on the field every time I step foot on one,” Herring added.