POUND, Va. – Morgan Lowe spent countless hours rehearsing for her big moment.
Boosted by a large and loud group of fans, Lowe delivered a command performance Monday as Damascus won the Virginia State Junior League softball tournament with a 4-1 decision over Elkton.
Lowe struck out four en route to a five-hitter against the potent Elkton lineup. The Harrisonburg-based squad forced the extra game with a 4-2 win early Monday evening.
According to Damascus manager David Morrison, his squad is on a historic pace.
“No team from our league had ever won a state title until we did it in the 9-10 age group,” said Morrison, a former star athlete at Holston High School. “I’ve been coaching these young ladies since they were in T-ball. They’ve always worked very hard.
“We’ve got balanced offense and we play great defense. Through our district and state tournament, I think we’ve only given up seven runs.”
The formula for Lowe is homegrown, as she works up to five nights a week with her father to hone a four-pitch arsenal.
“That work pays off,” Lowe said. “I was very nervous tonight, but my defense backed me up again.”
Megan Honaker and Brianna Thomas paced Damascus in the second game with two hits apiece, while Brittany Boyd supplied a bunt single. Faith Ritchie supplied three hits in the opener.
“We’re one of the smallest Little Leagues in the state, but we have unreal support and now we’re going to regionals. That’s something to be proud of,” Morrison said.
Damascus advances to the Southern Regionals in Fort Myers, Fla. on Aug. 1.
agregory@bristolnews.com (276) 645-2544.
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