By By Jeff Byrd / staff writer
Aug. 15, 2002
Third-year head coach D'Aunn Odom is eyeing another Division 5-4A playoff berth for her Quitman High Lady Panthers in 2002.
Last year, Quitman went 10-6 and earned a playoff spot as the No. 2 team in the division behind powerhouse Northeast Lauderdale. Northeast went on to win the South State 4A title and earn a spot in the 4A finals before falling to long-time power New Hope.
A key for the Lady Panthers is their improved team chemistry.
Quitman has eight returning starters, including six seniors.
Freshman center fielder Gabby Morgan is the top returning batter from a year ago. She hit .481 in 2001.
Senior right fielder Shaquilla Mack batted .400 as did senior second baseman Candace Boatner.
Senior Latosha Evans is in left field. Melissa Taylor, another senior, is at first base. Behind the plate is Jenny Mollett, Quitman's reigning Junior Miss.
Playing short field will be junior Nicole Creighton. Sophomore Rebecca Riley is at third base.
Sophomore Emily Vanlandingham is at shortstop and sophomore Brandy Moore is the pitcher.
Odom says that three other players will be counted on for reserve duty and will play a good bit. They include freshmen Amanda Herring, junior Kelli Perkins, and eighth grader Lindsey Martin.
Odom will be assisted again by coach Minnie McCree.
Quitman's first division game is Tuesday against Northeast Jones.