2009 State Games Observations/Comments

Observed Eddie "Pop" Rivers tirelessly doing everything he could to make the Games a positive experience for the players, coaches, fans, and volunteers.

Some of the things observed: raking mud (even when his team wasn't playing), checking on the conditions in the dugouts (water, etc.), greeting coaches personally and taking time to speak with them when they were finishing up their final games.

Overheard several groups talking about how Pop was going nonstop throughout the tournament.

Thanks, Pop!

 

without Pop and a lot of other hard working district chairs we wouldnt have any of what we are experiencing from the NCSCA.

It was good to see so many that you have played with and against over the years as the journey winds down.

 

Pop Rivers is a Class Act!

I volunteered for the State Games last year in Greensboro and agree whole heartedly!!! Anytime anyone had a question, he answered it. Anytime anyone needed something, he made sure it got taken care of. I truly enjoyed my volunteer time there. Thanks goes to Pop and ALL of the State Games staff for putting on another year of terrific games!

 

I agree with you for the most part, cheeze.

Region 3 had a wonderful team of girls. We had the entire range from freshmen through seniors. We won our first game and our last game. We played every player every game in some position or another except for the last game in which some of our players had TB obligations. Even then, some of those players stayed as long as possible with at least one offering to drive back from Columbia if we needed her.

We lost a key player in the second game (against Region 5). Not trying to make an excuse, but you can't lose a player like Mary Scott Powell without being negatively affected.

You're right about it being hard to play everyone but I think the hardest part is getting them enough time at their preferred position. We were not able to do that but I hope most of the players understood. Our substitutions did not affect the outcome negatively so that's a good thing.

The girls did play to win! I don't remember a game where more tape and gauze was used. Ashley McGhee almost looked like a mummy after the last game. We had that one game (against Region 7) where the inexperience of not having practiced or played together raised its ugly head.

As far as the competition, the games were really great. Anyone who doesn't believe the competition was tough didn't play Region 5. I don't remember seeing better pitching. I don't know the pitchers' names but they were good.

Overheard some of the coaches and fans asking about our catcher, Kala Hinton. She is an awesome player. Wanted to know where she came from; Southwest Edgecombe. You'll have to look it up; I don't know where it is, either.

Overall it was enjoyable and rewarding and I'm already looking forward to next year's State Games! Spread the word about the Games!

 

Overheard some of the coaches and fans asking about our catcher, Kala Hinton. She is an awesome player. Wanted to know where she came from; Southwest Edgecombe. You'll have to look it up; I don't know where it is, either.


Yes, I was very impressed by her catching abilities. what grade will she be in and who does she play TB for? The young lady has a cannon for an arm

 

She's a rising senior. GPA 4.4. I think she said TB team was the Magic. If I remember it was around Rocky Mount (Pinetops). Quiet, mannerable kid. If you see her play again watch her eyes; she's checking out everything, every time. Good bat, also.

 

Pop has done all he can for the kids! No doubt about that folks!

Speaking for many, many folks Pop, thanks!

Marlin

 

Lady Blues

Watching the Senior West/East game yesterday was a Lady Blue Reunion. It was really neat to see the following girls playing for the west team:

Chelsea Leonard
Tisha Mahon
Chelsea Stamey
Kalie Lang
Olivia Poplin
Allie Cashion
Jordyn Arrowood (watching from the stands)

At one point in the game Allie was in left, Tisha in center and Kalie in right with Jordyn yelling in the stands, priceless.

Great job by extremely fine young ladies. Thanks Pop for allowing these girls to play together for one last time.

 

Region 6 Goes Bronze !!

Key hits from "Bek" Reaves, Cort Barrineau, Steph Spain, Sarah "Boomer" Mooney,and few more led the Region 6 team past the Region 7 by the score of 5-2... Great Job Girls !!