third baseman, was selected as PBC Player of the Year and first
team all-American. It was the first time in school history a Lady
Brave softball player received the honor. Shaw holds six career
softball records and led the conference in hitting this season with
an average of .441. Coach Lacinda Melanson is in her second
year.
"There is not enough time or space to describe the positive
impact and leadership Jelena has provided for this team all four
years," coach Melanson said. "She is the hardest working and
most humble athlete I have ever coached.
"She is blessed athletically with tons of speed, power and
quick reaction time; when you add her work ethic there is
no stopping her," she continued. "There is no doubt that she
deserves every award she has received this year. Off the field,
she held above a 3.0 cumulative GPA and is involved with the
student advisory committee. She is leaving very large shoes to
fill!"
Holly Berry was selected Peach Belt Conference Freshman
of the Year in softball. Berry plays shortstop and batted .423 for
the season along with ranking third in the conference in hits and
fourth in RBIs.
"Holly has come on stronger than anticipated as a true
freshman this year," coach Melanson said. "We are very proud
of her! She is a great all-around athlete and works hard to stay in
the shape she needs to be in.
"Holly provides power, good speed and a very strong arm,"
she continued. "In the classroom, she has also done very well.
"She is an exciting ball player to have because we know she
is going to continue to improve and mature," Melanson said.
"We look forward to her becoming a sound leader for us and
anticipate better seasons each year she is here."
A third member of the softball team, junior Loren Bartz, was
selected to the all-conference team.