Maya Douglas, Independence PatriotsÂ
The Lady Patriots softball team has a talented group of players. Especially in the sophomore class with Maya Douglas, Mallory Shaver, Cameron Howie, and Mckenzie Grant. They have a solid and talented group of junior athletes returning with Jaylin Adkins and Abrianna Berry. Adkins is a solid outfielder and could be the top pitcher on next years team as she is a hard throwing hurler. Berry is excellent behind the dish with a strong arm, however, could also play the infield. Douglas can play anywhere in the infield and even in the outfield if needed as she is athletic enough to chase down fly balls covering ground.
Coach Jardina has a strong foundation over the next two seasons to build upon to be a highly competitive team if the pitching falls into place. Currently, Adkins and Shaver seem the two most logical choices unless a new pitcher enters the program.
Meanwhile, Maya Douglas a talented sophomore could be the best all-around athlete on a team with a solid core of players. She has the most potential to excel and remain not only a conference and regional standout, however, over the next few years should be receiving all-state consideration if she achieves her full potential.
During this season she led the team in all offensive categories. Her batting average .547, 30 runs scored, 35 hits, 36 RBI’s and 18 extra base hits is outstanding. She has amassed 10 doubles, 2 triples and blasted 6 home runs with her quick bat speed. Douglas posts an OBP .618, SLG 1.046, OPS 1.665. While on the field she made no errors in 22 games on 54 total chances, accumulating 39 putouts, 15 assists, and turned 3 double plays.
Douglas was a fixture at second base this past season, however, she is certainly athletic enough to switch to shortstop next season as she appears to have the range and throwing arm to firm up the infield at a key position up the middle.
It is early for 2020 predictions, however, with Douglas and the other athletes mentioned the Patriots future looks bright.
The Mint Hill Times Sports Editor congratulates Maya Douglas for being selected the “Featured Player of the Week.”
