Softball successfully defends 5A State Title

Will Kriby - PCHS Bulletin

On May 24, Parrish Community High school captured the state title for the 2nd year in a row against Gainesville High School, with a score of 3-2 in extra innings. They completed an unlikely playoff run, going undefeated in 7 games with an impressive 4 shutouts. For the Bulls' five-year program, this win adds to an impressive trophy case with two state championships, two regional championships, and three district championships.

Parrish had a rocky start to the season. They lost some strong, powerful players with the previous season's graduating class, and it took some time to find their rhythm. 

“One thing we’ve been saying all year long is ‘we’re not rebuilding, we’re reloading,’” said Coach Erin Spivey. “That’s something we’ve really dug into because it’s very hard to win a state championship, hands down. But the next hardest thing to do is go back-to-back.” 

The Bulls did just that under the leadership of seniors and college commits Alex Call, Julia Girk, Jade Kruse, Rylee Little, and Ella Romano. All 5 seniors are going to college to continue their softball careers.

  • Alex Call – University of Virginia
  • Julia Girk – Appalachian State University
  • Jade Kruse – New College of Florida
  • Rylee Little – Palm Beach Atlantic University
  • Ella Romano – The College of Coastal Georgia

Little was recently recognized by the Suncoast News Network (SSN) for her dominating presence on the pitching mound. Numerous individuals around campus have expressed that the game plan for the Bulls was to keep Little on the mound. She pitched a no-hitter in the regional semifinals against Northeast. She pitched all seven innings in the state semifinals against Horizon and only allowed one run on six hits. Finally, she pitched all eight innings in the state finals against Gainesville, only surrendering two runs on four hits.

Contributing to the state series victory were underclassmen Mackenzie Pandelo and Hannah Lewis for their work at the plate in the semifinal match. Pandelo hit a home run and had 3 RBI (runner batted in) while Lewis scored two runs. In the finals match, Senior Ella Romano went 2-for-4 with a stolen base and 2 RBI.

Parrish will look for the first 3-peat in FHSAA softball history when they take the mound next year.