Going into its first game in almost three weeks Tuesday, March 24, at Mayer Elementary School, Camp Verde Middle School has encountered, at most, token resistance in its journey to repeat as Verde Valley League softball champions.
But head coach Steve Stone knows that even a March 5 run-ruling of West Sedona School won’t tell the tale of his team.
“We never walk out and just say, ‘We’re the champs,’” he said. “We know there’s a target on our back. We never assume anything.”
Versatility has been the name of the game for Stone, with preparation for Camp Verde High School’s regularly-rotating defenses first priority.
One thing he can assume, however, is having a skilled starting pitcher. Eighth-grader Carlee Oesterreich is his No. 1 starter this spring, but seventh-graders Jordyn Cowsert and Melinda Brady are not just spot pitchers, as Brady proved in the 16-2 blowout of the Wildcats.
For the full story and schedule, please see the Wednesday, March 25, issue of the Camp Verde Journal.
