(727) 774-3300

The regular season came to an emotional end on Friday night, but in an explosive fashion. The Bucs faced the Bulldogs from Zephryhills in a SAC finale that held championship implications. Down 2-0 in the 4th inning, the girls exploded for 11 unanswered runs on their way to a 12-2 ten run mercy victory on Senior Night. The ladies were again led by the senior Madison Morlan, who took the mound for her final regular season home game. Her battery mate, senior Nikki Sedivy set up behind the plate to prepare for a shot at a SAC championship that would be the FIRST in school history during the fast pitch era that began in 1992.

Seniors Rachel Gardner and Tarra Rice took their traditional spots at first and third respectfully to begin the game. Senior Taylor Cook (injured), stepped out in front of home plate and on her trumpet, played the National Anthem, as she did prior to the State Playoff games in 2013. Senior Brandi Vance did not play while attending the ROTC Military Ball.

With the first pitch, they began the final home game and the establishment of their legacy as the most successful class to wear a Gulf uniform during the fast pitch era.

The 12 run barrage was led by the seniors. They accounted for 7 runs scored and 7 batted in, led by Rachel Gardner with 4 RBI’s. Rachel also blasted her 2nd homer, a three run shot, over the left field fence in the 4th, her second of the season. Madison went 3/3, 2 runs and 1RBI. Nikki added a 2/3 night and scored twice. Tarra drove in the 10th and deciding run with a cannon shot double into left center. She also scored twice and drove in 2. The emotions were clearly on her face as she realized her hit had iced the game. Brittany Pressler also came close to hitting her first homer of the season to open the fourth, she went 2/4, double, with 1 run scored and 2 RBI.

The victory runs the Buccaneers record to 17-4 and sets the table for the district tournament beginning Monday at River Ridge. Game time is 5:pm and the ladies will take on the Seahawks from SunLake.

The night came to a conclusion with the senior night celebration. Tearful testimonies from the underclassmen was then followed by the senior night video and a chance for the seniors to say goodbye to their teammates, coaches, family and friends. Always well received, the video hit home with nearly everyone and proved once again how this team has evolved into a family that protects each other. Especially when a team tries to come on THEIR FIELD and ruin their night.

Congratulations to the seniors and the entire Buccaneer family for a memory filled career and wish all the success going forward for the Class of 2014.

softball_senior_night_630