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The Marion C. Early softball team is into their first Final Four since 2008 and the 13th Final Four in program history, and they’re led by junior Hailey Presley.
The Final Four is something the Presley family has always dreamt of.
“I’m playing with my cousin Lauren and it’s her last year and I’ve always played with her my whole life. We’ve always dreamed of going to the Final Four,” Hailey said.
This season is a dream come true thanks in large part to Hailey.
“She knows the game, she’s a team leader. Pitching-wise, she’s my ace the last three years, she’s good in the circle,” said Marion C. Early softball coach Mike McHolland.
Good might be an understatement. This season, she’s 25-7 while striking out at least one batter per inning.
“She’s just got command of her pitches, all four of her pitches, very steady out there, doesn’t get rattled if someone gets two or three hits on her,” McHolland added.
Speaking of hits Hailey leads the team at the plate. The junior bats third with a batting average of .574.
“Two girls in front of her, my lead-off and my two hole, and then she’s coming up and good things happen,” McHolland said.
Hailey’s batted in 60 runs in 32 games. She says a key factor to her success is keeping an open mind.
“Just stay out of your head and have fun it’s all a mind game. You’re going to fail, you’re not always going to be successful, but you have to go up there and have fun and stay loose,” Hailey said.
It’s that mindset that’s helped the Lady Panthers to their first Final Four in 14 years.
“She’s a good pressure player, I don’t see the pressure getting to her at the plate or in the circle,” McHolland said.
“I love the pressure, I love the game so much. I wouldn’t be able to do it without my team. To get to hang a banner in the gym it’s a big deal and I feel everyone on the team has deserved it this year,” Hailey added.
Now, Hailey and the Lady Panthers will try to make sure that banner says first place.
