MINT HILL, NC – Mint Hill American Legion Post 555 held its first tryouts for their newly created softball team on April 18. There were 18 area athletes who showed up, and the coaches held a clinical tryout with fielding, hitting, pitching, and baserunning, including a scrimmage, to access the talent.
Head Coach Amanda Jardina, who is also the Independence High School softball coach, was pleased with the talent. “We have good position players, but are in need of more pitching depth,” said the coach.
The Legion Lady Fastpitch Softball program was established in 2017 with 11 teams in North Carolina. Growth in 2018 increased the teams to 18 Senior and 6 Junior teams. By 2019, there were over 40 Senior teams and 21 Junior teams including a Department Tournament. The 2020 season was canceled due to COVID. The Mint Hill team will be the newest edition to the program and the first team formed to represent Mecklenburg County.
As a result of a recent decision, USA Softball of North Carolina will now sanction the North Carolina American Legion Fastpitch League beginning with the 2021 season. Many of us who played baseball grew up with American Legion baseball during our summers, sharing in the same types of memories our young lady athletes will now be able to experience and cherish for years to come. This new partnership will benefit both organizations and help grow their programs.
It was an exciting day for all, and we look forward to having a great summer season competing against other Legion teams throughout the state, especially in the western region of North Carolina.
The second tryout will be held on Sunday, May 2, from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm at the Independence High School Softball field.
