Dear Editor,
In response to the Lindsey Lynch article in Monday’s April 19 edition regarding chanting and cheering in softball, I just wanna know how many games have you watched and at what level?
As a parent, I have been around this game as a coach and spectator for 15 years and have watched girls’ softball at all levels. Cheering in the dugout goes with this game like mom and apple pie.
On long road trips in travel ball, there have been many games where the people in the dugout were the only ones watching and cheering on their teammates because parents and friends couldn’t make the trip. That’s much needed support on long, hot weekends where pure determination, intensity and the love of the game prevail to make these kids better ball players as they represent your university all over the South.
Cheering also keeps them loose and focused on the game.
If you want to discuss ETSU softball instead of aspirin, let’s look at this softball program, which was started just four years ago and their accomplishments.
This year, the inaugural class will finish as the first players in program history to complete all four years. Look at the time, hard work and effort this ladies have put in over the last four years as well as their unbelievable achievements.
Focus on the positive and give credit where credit is due. You can start with seniors Tiffany McVay, Rhea Holler, Julia Chance and Miranda Byerly.
And, don’t forget the beginning recruiting class, along with Sheryl Clark who transferred in her sophomore season, and Dani Richardson who started with the program but had to step down due to injuries and has been the team manager for the last three years.
Of course, we can’t forget all of the dedicated Buc softball players. What an unbelievable group of young women! I’m proud.
Bill Byerly

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