The Marlow High School softball team played their first round 2023 OSSAA 4A regional game on Wednesday, Sept. 27 against McCloud High School.

The Lady Outlaws jumped out to a quick lead in the second inning as senior Alisha Lemons hit a three run RBI double. 

The girls held a lead for most of the game, stretching the score to 11-4 going into the bottom of the seventh inning. 

Unfortunately, the Lady Redskins scored seven runs in the seventh inning, sending the game into extra innings and eventually leading Marlow to a loss of 12-11 in the ninth inning. 

The Lady Outlaws were determined as they began a must win game against Madill later that afternoon. 

United, they scored 12 runs to ultimately beat Madill 12-6.

On Thursday, the Lady Outlaws went out with a fight against McCloud, losing with a score of 4-3.

One person who played a key role this season is senior center fielder Alisha Lemons.

“I feel like I have played pretty well,” exclaimed Lemons. “I have definitely improved in all areas of the game, especially fielding.”

Lemons, taking in every moment of her senior year, feels that each member of the team stepped up and did their part this season.

“I think my teammates have played very well. Everyone did their part,” said Lemons.

Echoing Lemons thoughts on the season, freshman Jenna McKinley also reflects on the season.

“The season was great. I love the girls. Though we had quite a bit of losses, we went against some really good teams and always competed to the best of our ability,” commented McKinley.

Looking to the future, there is always room for improvement, pointed out McKinley.

“I think that we can work on communication on and off the field,” said McKinley.

Just as the players noted a difficult season that just wrapped up,  Marlow High School assistant Softball coach Julie McCauley also made note of some of the challenges faced not just by the players but the coaching staff as well.

“Something that has challenged me is figuring out individual players’ personality in order to motivate them and instruct them effectively,” expressed McCauley. “Building a relationship takes some time and softball is such a short season.”

McCauley has also been pushed by her students.

“Our girls have a lot of grit and determination, so I am motivated by them,” said McCauley.

The softball team went down swinging at the end of the season, and they will be back next fall to take on a new season.