By By Jeff Byrd/The Meridian Star
Sept. 17, 2001
Setting the table for the Northeast Lauderdale girls softball team is senior Katie Bergin.
The Lady Trojans are off to an outstanding start this season having compiled an impressive 15-1 record and a No. 6 ranking in the state girls softball team.
Bergin's ability to get on base as the team's leadoff hitter is a big reason for the team's success.
For her part, Bergin said she was initially hesitant about leading off the Lady Trojans' lineup.
The Lady Trojan senior gives Harper a lot of the credit for the team's hot start.
One of the moves Harper made which made Bergin feel more at ease was a move to the outfield. She had been the team's shortstop.
On Saturday in the second game against Enterprise, Bergin helped set in motion a rare triple play. She caught a dying fly by diving knee first to make the grab. She then threw over to second baseman Lauren Webb who then finished off the triple play.
Bergin's hitting has been just as solid. Yet she is unable to single out any one key hit this season.
Besides slow-pitch softball, Bergin is a vital member on two other Lady Trojan teams. She plays a mid-fielder role on the Northeast Lauderdale soccer team. That team finished third in the state last year.
Bergin is also a member of the Lady Trojan fast-pitch softball team.
Harper says Bergin has the ability to continue playing next year.
Bergin would like to continue playing next year at the college or junior college level.
Jeff Byrd is a sports writer for The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3235, or e-mail him at jbryd@themeridian star.com.