North Augusta Post 71 Halos Show Growth in Legion Baseball

News Summary

The North Augusta Post 71 Halos are navigating challenges in their American Legion baseball season, striving for team cohesion and skill development. After a recent doubleheader against Greenwood Post 20, the Halos hold a record of 3-9. Despite a tough first game loss, the team showed improvement in the second game. Coach Jordan Willingham emphasizes focusing on personal growth and enjoying the game as they prepare for the last four games of the season against skilled opponents.

North Augusta – The North Augusta Post 71 Halos continue to improve team cohesion despite facing challenges in the American Legion baseball season. After a recent doubleheader against Greenwood Post 20 on June 18, the Halos maintain an overall record of 3 wins and 9 losses. Their most recent games highlight not only the competitive nature of the league but also the growth potential of the team, which primarily consists of younger players from various Aiken and Edgefield County high schools, including Aiken High, North Augusta, and Fox Creek.

In the first game of the doubleheader, the Halos struggled against Greenwood Post 20, losing 9-0. Kaylee Stripling pitched the entire five innings and struck out five opponents, showcasing her skills even in defeat. Hende’ja Frazier, a new addition from Aiken High School for the summer season, managed to record a hit in Game 1, while Micah Kennedy consistently reached base and later pitched the second game entirely. Kinsey Stripling’s performance included getting a lead on second base after being walked in the later innings of the first game.

The second game displayed signs of improvement for the Halos. They took an early lead at 1-0, holding Greenwood Post 20 scoreless during the opening innings. However, they ultimately lost the game 5-1. Ava Lindsey contributed significantly to the team, hitting a double during the last inning, which energised the Halos. Despite the loss, Coach Jordan Willingham expressed optimism based on the team’s performance in the second game, which demonstrated their potential for growth.

Competing against older, more experienced teams—many of which are 17U squads—has posed challenges for the Halos, who often find themselves overmatched due to a lack of 15U teams in South Carolina. Nevertheless, the coaching staff emphasizes the importance of skill development and enjoying the game over outright winning. Each game serves as a learning opportunity for these young athletes, fostering their development on the field.

As the season progresses, the Halos have four games left to play: two against the Blue Angels and two against Abbeville Post 2. The team’s focus remains on improving their individual skills and fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie. Coach Willingham noted that the players have begun to bond as they play together, showcasing the potential for teamwork and collective effort as they look to end the season on a high note.

Sustaining a positive outlook despite the setbacks will be vital for the North Augusta Post 71 Halos as they navigate the remainder of this American Legion season. Their commitment to growth and resilience, coupled with the support of their coaches and the community, lays the groundwork for a promising future in the sport.

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Additional Resources

• American Legion Post 71 Halos Fastpitch Softball
• High School Sports Coverage
• North Augusta Playoffs Coverage
• Wikipedia: American Legion Baseball
• Post 26 Softball Debuts
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Softball

Author: HERE Greenwood