Lady Jags earn first trip to state tournament

Underwood came charging in from second base with her helmet raised over her head. Hamm threw his hat and sunglasses into the air, and the team mobbed Staton and Rainwater.

East Jessamine softball was champion of the 12th Region and headed to state.

“(I’m feeling) a lot of emotion and a lot of nerves. I’m proud of every one of these girls,” Hamm said. “They’ve been through a lot this year and pulled through it and showed a lot of heart. I couldn’t be more proud of them than I¿am right now.”

“I wanted to jump up and down, but I kind of can’t,” Hall said.

Following the game, the all-tournament team was announced. Haylee Hamm, Boston, Davis and Underwood were selected for East.

After hoisting the championship trophy, exchanging hugs and congratulations with teammates and parents, its was time for coach Hamm to make good on a bet.

The team gathered at the pitcher’s circle, East brought out a boombox and Hamm did “The Dougie” dance.

East Jessamine is one of 16 schools headed to the KHSAA softball state tournament in Owensboro. The tournament runs from Thursday through Saturday. It is double-elimination format, and each school is guaranteed at least two games. A school must win at least five games to win the tournament.

“It’s a grueling schedule for these girls, and (state) isn’t going to be any different,” Hamm said. “But if we play the way we played (against Somerset) and (against Pulaski County), with the kind of heart we played with, I think we have a legitimate shot to make some noise.”

The Lady Jags play Thursday at 5 p.m. against Allen County-Scottsville (36-4-1). The Lady Patriots won the 15th District and the 4th Region. They have won 12 straight games and have not lost since May 9.

In the most recent 2011 KSCA Coaches Poll, published on May 17, Allen County was ranked No. 3 behind No. 1 Ballard and No. 2 Christian County.

Last season, Allen County-Scottsville was a win away from the championship.