By Amanda Perkins (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
In her first year coaching at her alma mater, Taylor Mathis led East Newton to a 17-7 record. The Lady Patriots’ second-round finish came in a brutal district that was won by Diamond, the eventual Class 2 state champion. With one loss to graduation, the team brings back a strong core to build on last year’s success.
“I had a very young team last year, and this year looks to be the same, with underclassmen outnumbering the upperclassmen,” said Mathis. “A first-year coach and a young team can always be scary, but the girls stepped up and showed the area that East Newton is something to talk about. My roster is the same this year, with some additional arsenal being added by the upcoming freshman class.”
And Mathis isn’t alone in leading the charge. “My assistant coach (Jamey Gilion) is my old high school coach, so we have come full circle,” she said.
One standout the Patriots return to the field is Gracie Ford, a senior shortstop who signed to play for Crowder College. “She is a leader on the field and brings a lot to our team athletically,” said Mathis. “She plays with ease. When it’s hit her way, I know we have an out.”
Second baseman Halle Cook “is a hard worker,” said Coach Mathis. “I know she’s going to give me her all to get the play done.”
On Ford and Cook, Mathis said, “Both girls play with the grit you look for in an athlete.”
Mathis said her pitching and catching staff will be a force this season, featuring Ericka McMillen. McMillen earned all-state and all-conference honors as well as pitcher of the year for the Big 8 conference.
“Along with McMillen and Cook, we have strong bats on the right and left side, making us deadly when they all string together,” said Coach Mathis.
Addison Lamb and Kayley Drake, seniors, will also look to contribute for East Newton.
“Our main goals are to be competitive and have that winning mentality, but not get ahead of ourselves,” said Mathis. “Everyone wants the trophy at the end, so our goal is to work hard and not accept failure but learn from any losses to improve for the next game.”
East Newton will host Diamond in their home opener March 25.
