Fusion claims softball tournament crown

Fusion won the 14-and-under softball tournament this weekend at the El Dorado-Union County Recreation Complex.
Fusion won the 14-and-under softball tournament this weekend at the El Dorado-Union County Recreation Complex.

The El Dorado/Union County Recreation Complex hosted the Chili Pepper Softball Tournament this weekend. A pair of local teams advanced to the final with Fusion knocking off Impact 10-3 in the 14-and-under championship game.

Fusion’s team consists of players from Junction City, Parkers Chapel and Smackover. Impact’s roster is based out of Smackover.

“It was a long day of softball,” said Fusion coach Shelby Ward. “We drew the short end of the stick when it came to the bracket. We were the only team to play two pool games before entering bracket play. We played five games back to back with no break in between.

“Our team consisted of girls from three different schools and having only two practices together, I couldn't be more proud of these girls. I have never seen a group of girls have so much (energy). They had great attitudes all day. It was just a really good day.”

Fusion’s team consists of Tatum Watson, Kallie Martin, Makenzie Morgan, Karla Castillo, Krista Rivers, Mackenzie Brantley, Carlee Cater, D'Nyah Brown, Valarie Kidwell, Tori Morgan, Taylor Darden and Bella Frisby. Coaches are Ward, Michael Martin and Dusty Darden.

“These girls are the future of Union County softball and I look forward to seeing what they each accomplish in the future,” said Ward. “I couldn't have done this without the help of Michael Martin and Dusty Darden. They both have been doing this a long time and as a coach I even learned so much. I hope the complex continues to put on tournaments in the future. They have a great set up and it needs to be utilized more.”

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