Ledbetter and Livingston throw first pitches at NACC’S historic inaugural softball doubleheader

Cinthia Rico

February 1 was a historic day for the Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC) Lady Mustangs Softball team, as they celebrated their inaugural season with a doubleheader sweep against Chattahoochee Valley Community College at the Nathaniel Ledbetter Stadium and Mustang Field.

The afternoon began with Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) throwing the ceremonial first pitch in game one, while Senate Majority Leader Steve Livingston (R-Scottsboro) handled the honors in game two. Both leaders, instrumental in the building of the new stadium, were joined by Representative Mike Kirkland to commemorate the special occasion.

Speaker Ledbetter throws the first pitch in game one.
Leader Livingston poses for a picture with a Lady Mustang before the game.

The Lady Mustangs made their debut unforgettable, defeating the Lady Pirates 3-2 in a tightly fought first game before unleashing an offensive explosion in game two, winning 18-2.

Game 1: A Tight Contest
The Mustangs took control in the bottom of the fourth inning when Ali Moss singled, driving in a run to give NACC a 2-1 lead. Kayleigh Warnock earned the win on the mound, pitching six strong innings. She allowed only two runs on six hits, striking out five and walking two. Key hits from Kimber Craig, Peyton Hill, Emma Hindmon, and Moss helped secure the win.

Game 2: Offensive Dominance
Game two was an offensive showcase for the Lady Mustangs. NACC put up 11 runs in the second inning, which was highlighted by a grand slam to the center field from big hitter Peyton Hill. Pitcher Shianne Parker secured the win, allowing just three hits in three and one-third innings while walking none. Kiley Weston led the Mustangs at the plate, going 4-for-5, while Maddie Wilson, Raeleigh Hocker, Brooklyn McGee, Emma Hindmon, and Kimber Craig all recorded multiple hits.

Coach Joe Guthrie led his team to victory by utilizing the skills of a host of local standouts, including Plainview alum Jada Hampton, Sylvania’s Kyndell Sammons, Ider’s Sophia Murphey, and Fyffe’s Livia Cowart.

Pictured here are the Lady Mustangs with Coach Joe Guthrie, Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter, Senate Majority Leader Steve Livingston, and Representative Mike Kirkland.

Congratulations to the Lady Mustangs on a successful debut at Nathaniel Ledbetter Stadium.

Cinthia Rico is the sports writer for Mountain Valley News.

Courtesy of Mountain Valley News