Avon softball was reminded of their purpose, but New Palestine secured a chance to compete in the state final….
BEDFORD — This season, Avon softball has been concentrating heavily on the “mental game” with their first-year coach, Kiah Ferrell. On Sunday, Ferrell and one of her assistants selected a motivational quote that resonated with the players and asked each player to submit a childhood softball photo. These photos were displayed in the Orioles’ dugout for their Class 4A semistate semifinal against New Palestine, which resumed on Monday with “play for her” written on three notecards.
“We wanted them to remember to play for the 7-year-old girl who dreamed of being here,” Ferrell said after Avon’s 6-0 defeat to New Palestine. “It was meant to keep them present and acknowledge how far they’ve come.”
Ferrell has focused on her players’ mental well-being during her first season, incorporating unique activities during the offseason and team reading assignments throughout the year.
“It’s often overlooked, but my players embraced this new approach,” Ferrell said. “I’m grateful they accepted it, as it was something different but beneficial.”
Avon’s strong team chemistry and mutual belief in each other characterized their season, which saw them win 19 games and claim their fourth consecutive sectional championship (13th overall). Their season was marked by notable events, including their bus breaking down on the way to Terre Haute and a 10-2 win over Roncalli in the regional championship, their first since 2017.
In the semistate, Avon faced a senior-led New Palestine team that has been among the state’s elite from the start of the season.
“I think we were a bit nervous,” Ferrell noted. “This was the first time for many of our players in this situation, and we struggled with some pitches. (Courtney Study) was particularly effective with her rise ball.”
Study, who had recently competed in the state track meet, pitched a three-hit shutout with two walks and four strikeouts. Her performance was crucial, especially as she faced a bases-loaded jam amidst a downpour. Her strong showing continued when play resumed, limiting Avon’s hits and ensuring Sydney Oliver’s two-run double in the first inning secured the win.
Study’s development has been marked by a focus on confidence and managing nerves. She improved her ERA to 2.09 and reduced the number of home runs allowed this season. The coaching staff’s support has been crucial, helping Study focus on hitting her spots rather than striving for perfect pitches.
Ferrell praised Study for her ability to make Avon’s batters chase pitches and commended the defense for its solid performance, with 18 putouts.
New Palestine will advance to face Center Grove in the 4A south state semifinal, with the winner moving on to the state championship game against Hamilton Southeastern.
Avon will graduate eight seniors: Lylah Farrell, Hannah Sutton, Karly Anderson, Madi Pappas, Madeline Herman, Jaylee Fansler, Kelsey Babinec, and Emma Stopperich. Ferrell expressed gratitude for their contributions: “They embraced me and the changes, and I wish I could have had them for more than one season. They set a high standard for Avon.”
