Faith Barden and her teammates fell one game short of a state title for Coleman’s softball team.
She was just one of two seniors and a pitcher and first baseman. But she was a valuable contributor for the Comets during the regular season.
Barden was on the varsity three years and has received postseason honors. This was her best year in the circle, she said. She was around 18-6.
The best game Barden may have had all year was the quarterfinal in a 1-0 victory over Frankfort. Barden recalls her riseball was effective in that game.
“I think I got a little bit faster than last year,” she said. “My riseball has been coming in quicker.”
Barden indicated she covered the ball well at first base and had a dependable arm.”
Barden batted more than .400 this season and had her best hitting season.
“It was both from mechanics and working during the offseason,” Barden said.
In the regional semifinals, she had a two-run hit to win the game.
“This team had played well together,” Barden said.
Centreville defeated Coleman 5-2 in the title game.
“If we wouldn’t have made one error that cost us three runs, we were in that game,” Barden said.
Barden also played basketball at Coleman. She has committed to playing softball at Lawrence Tech University.
“I’ll miss playing with the girls the most,” Barden said. “I’ve been playing with them forever.”