Lady Panthers Clench PCA’s First AHSAA State Title

The Lady Panthers’ ascent to the state title game was nothing short of hard work and determination by every member of PCA’s softball team. The excitement began in the state qualifying game as the Lady Panthers were down by three runs against Gordo High School. With bases loaded, Carolyn Carter hit a walk-off grand slam to put the team up by one where they would hold them for a final score of 6-5.

Breathing a sigh of relief, the Lady Panthers brought their best game to Lagoon Park as they played undefeated (4-0) throughout the Class 3A state tournament. The Lady Panthers claimed the state title after defeating Geneva High School 7-1, the second win off them in the same day, in the championship game Friday night as they clenched PCA’s first-ever state title in Alabama High school Association athletics. 

Freshman pitcher Landyn McAnnally pitched a two-hitter in the final game and struck out eight to get the win. She was named the 3A state tournament’s most valuable player. Carolyn Carter, Kathryn Fallen, and Madison Hanson were also named to the All-Tournament Team.

“We came here to have fun,” said Coach Stough. “I asked them for their best, and I think they played their best. It wasn’t just one or two players stepping up. Everyone played a big role.”

The Lady Panthers’ championship season ended with a 41-12 record. Since the state tournament, Paisley Wilson, junior pitcher, was selected as one of only 60 high school softball players from the United States and Puerto Rico for MLB’s Softball Breakthrough Series in California in June.