By Sam McClanahan
CYNTHIANA — The Pendleton County Ladycats Fastpitch Softball team made quick work of Nicholas County in opening round play of the 38th District Tournament last week but would fall to Harrison County in the championship round.
Due to the threat of inclement weather the tournament was completed in full on May 19 at Harrison County High School. Harrison County eliminated Robertson County in the first game and the Ladycats would put together an impressive, 15-0 lopsided win over Nicholas County in three innings. Ladycats sophomore Hannah Spaulding led the offense going 2-2 with two home runs and a team-best five RBI's. Mylie Honnert drove in three runs and Logan Cooper along with Aubrey Mullins finished with two RBI's each. The victory also qualified the team for the 10th Region Tournament.
Later that evening, the Ladycats would square off against Harrison County in the championship game. Pendleton County was looking to claim their first title since 2022. However, the Ladycats would fall 3-1 in a very competitive matchup. The lone Pendleton County would be driven in by Mylie Honnert. Spaulding would pitch six innings where she would allow seven hits, three runs, and total five strikeouts.
Following the loss, Ladycats head coach Jessica Verst reflected on her team's performance.
"I was proud of the girls for hanging tough last Monday. We came out ready to play versus Nicholas and versus Harrison County. Our defense played great to keep us in the game. We know it is always going to be tight game when we play Harrison County, so I was proud of how they handled it," Verst said.
Pendleton County will now regroup and look to make a run in the 10th Region Tournament with aspirations of claiming the programs third title in school history and a return to the state tournament. The Ladycats home site, Moreland Field, will host this week's tournament which got underway on May 26. Coach Verst also commented on what it'll require for her squad to make another memorable postseason run.
"To make a run we need to continue to play great defense behind Hannah and get some timely hits. We continue to tell the girls to stay positive, minimize damage, and score some runs. I am excited to see how we do this week."