Trion Softball Sweeps Taylor County to Advance to Elite Eight

The Trion High School Lady Bulldogs softball team is headed to Columbus after securing a spot in the Elite Eight of the Georgia High School Association Class A state playoffs.

Trion punched its ticket to the next round Monday evening with a pair of victories over Taylor County, winning the opening game 3-0 before taking the second game 5-4. The two wins completed a sweep of the second-round playoff series and secured the Lady Bulldogs a place among the final eight teams competing for the Class A state championship.

The win also served as a bit of redemption for the Lady Bulldogs, who suffered their first loss in Columbus last season at the Elite Eight against Taylor County.

“Man, what an awesome performance out of our girls! They have shown grit all year long. Taylor County was a great ball club, and we battled for 14 innings,” Trion Softball head coach Trent Stamey said. “I’ve been preaching to our girls all playoffs that the scoreboard is all that matters at the end of the day, and they have bought into that philosophy to stop focusing on individual stats and do what’s best for the team in order to win. I couldn’t be more proud of our girls for winning Region Champs and earning a spot in the Elite Eight for the second year in a row. Their hard work and dedication this season has paid off, and I’m excited to see what we accomplish in Columbus. Go Lady Dawgs!!!”

Game 1: Staton Throws Shutout in 3-0 Victory

Hartley Staton delivered a standout performance in the circle to lead Trion to a 3-0 shutout victory in the opening game.

Staton struck out nine.

The Lady Bulldogs opened the scoring in the third inning when Abbi Wheat grounded out, allowing a run to score. Trion added to its lead as Wheat finished with two RBIs, going 1-for-3 at the plate. Staton also contributed offensively, going 2-for-3 to lead Trion in hits.

Trion’s pitching and defense held firm throughout the game, securing the shutout and giving the Lady Bulldogs an early advantage in the series.

Game 2: Lady Bulldogs Rally for 5-4 Win

Trion followed the opening-game shutout with a hard-fought 5-4 victory in the second game, overcoming Taylor County to complete the sweep.

Caity DeLay laid down a sacrifice bunt, which helped Trion tie the game at one in the top of the third. The Lady Dawgs took the lead in the top of the fourth. Dnalee Lively grounded out, scoring one run, to give Trion the upper hand, 2-1.

DeLay provided a key offensive contribution, driving in two runs. Zoi Phillips and Stella Morrison also helped lead Trion at the plate, collecting two hits each.

The late scoring proved decisive as Trion held on for the one-run win, securing the second victory needed to advance to the Elite Eight.

Hartley Staton struck out 12 batters on the day.

Up Next

The Lady Bulldogs will open tournament play in Columbus at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday against Irwin County as they continue their run toward the Class A state championship.