Lady Pirate softball team wins sixth state title
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MILES CITY—The Lady Pirates repeated as state champions at the State Class A Softball Tournament last weekend for the second consecutive year with a final win over Frenchtown 7-1. The Lady Pirates have also won state titles in 2001, 2002, 2004, 2007, and 2010.
In the first championship game, Frenchtown defeated Polson 7-6. Because it is a double elimination tournament, the two teams played a second championship game.
“They didn’t beat us, we gave it to them,” head coach Larry Smith said. “That game was not indicative of our defense,” he explained, citing the five errors made during the game.
In the second championship game Polson came out on top 7-1 to win the school’s sixth state title.
Senior catcher Kayla Duford was named MVP of the state tournament. Last year Duford’s younger sister, sophomore pitcher Shalaina Duford, was awarded the honor.
“I didn’t expect it. I was really excited and my sister was happy for me,” Duford said.
Polson started the tournament with a 10-0 win over Anaconda and 8-4 wins over Billings Central. They defeated Frenchtown 4-1 in their first meeting before playing them twice for the championship.
Smith said the leadership of seniors Duford, Kylie Knutson, Sallie Sams and Kodi Woods was one of the keys to this year’s success.
“My four seniors kept the team close and accepted the freshmen and made them part of the team,” Smith said. “They were a total solid unit.”
“The younger girls were a huge help. During the game they were cheering and really supportive,” Duford added.
According to Smith, the team’s unity was a crucial factor during the state tournament as he called on his bench when some of his starters were struggling. Smith had particular praise for designated hitter freshman Jessica Bagnell. In the first championship game, Bagnell and Duford combined to record seven of the Pirates’ 14 hits and drive in four runs.
“They really came through in key moments,” Smith said. “They are a fine example of what a bench could do.”
“I couldn’t ask for it to be any other way,” Duford added. “It was the perfect ending.”
