Team goes from worst to first
The Moses Lake Rattlers U10 Softball Team. Pictured in the front row from left are Jenna Rowland, Madi Olson, Gabi Rios, Bailey Kehl and Kari Heath. Middle row from left are Harley Raymond, Chloe Hansen, Savannah Ashley, Gina Skinner and Mia Vela. Back row from left are coach Vanessa Olson, Michele Turner, coach Steve Ausere, Emily Ausere, coach Kim Ashley and Laurissa Martinez.
COEUR d' ALENE - A group of young girls from Moses Lake traveled to Coeur d' Alene to compete in a youth 10 and under girls fast pitch tournament Memorial Day weekend 2011.
Though they averaged 8 years old, the girls competed to the best of their ability and skills. They walked away with a 0-6 record at the tournament, but there was never a doubt from any of the players or the coaches they would be back to compete in 2012.
One year later, coach Kim Ashley's team did go back. The girls, still younger than most, were not considered to not be much competition.
But the Rattlers practiced all winter, played as many scrimmages as they could, competed in tournaments throughout the 2011 summer, and started to believe in themselves.
On Saturday, May 25, the team won two tough games and lost a close one to Spokane, which seeded them second for Sunday's tournament.
In the first game of the championship round, the Rattler bats where on fire as they walked away with a 13-1 victory. Game two was a tough battle, but that Rattlers won 4-0 and assured the team would return home with a medal.
Some were afraid they would let down at this point, but the tenacity and drive of these young girls and their coaches should never be questioned.
There was never a doubt from the first pitch of the game the girls planned on winning. Seven innings later, after many amazing defensive plays, timely hits and an outstanding pitching performance by Savannah Ashley, the Rattlers walked away with a 4-3 victory and the 2012 Tournament Championship.
There was no holding back the tears of joy from the girls, coaches, and parents.
The lessons they taught us all about never giving up, and believing in yourself and your teammates, is second to none. As your parents we thank you for making us so proud. As your fans, we say; keep up the good work.