Nettleton softball starts season 11-1-1 in Region 4-3A

The Nettleton Tigers softball team is off to a strong start this season. They have an overall record of 11 wins, 1 loss, and 1 tie. Recently, they won their opener in Region 4-3A against Choctaw County, beating them 11-1. Every player in the lineup got at least one hit, and pitcher Bailey Payne played a key role, keeping the opposing team from scoring. Bailey Payne is a sophomore with an impressive 0.58 earned run average (ERA) and has struck out 58 batters in 53 innings. Coach Makenzie Sullivan praised her work ethic and ability to adapt during games. Team performance is also solid. The Tigers collectively have a batting average of .312, with senior Zion Seals leading at .424. Other standout hitters include junior Savannah Harlow and sophomore Anna Taylor. The team is made up of experienced players, including senior Zyah Gunter and junior Chloe Humble. Sophomore Kennice Finnie, the second pitcher, has a 2.24 ERA in 25 innings. Coach Sullivan believes in the team’s potential as long as they maintain their focus and determination. In other sports news, Tupelo runner Andrew Brown broke his own state record in the mile run. He finished with a time of 4:15.60 at the New Balance Nationals in Boston, improving his previous record by four seconds. Brown faced eligibility issues last season due to a rule violation when he entered the same event without proper permission. Additionally, two North/South All-Star Basketball Games will take place this Friday at Mississippi College in Clinton. The girls’ game starts at 5 p.m., followed by the boys’ game at around 6:30 p.m. Admission is set at $10. The 1A to 4A All-Star games were held last week.