The Cardinals came back from a 15-0 deficit against a hard-hitting team, tying the score at the last minute then winning in extra innings. The Record-Bee gave the game a big article, but even that couldn’t do it justice. I’m telling you folks, it was the best high school sports game I’ve ever seen. And I’ve seen quite a few. I yelled myself hoarse!
The Cardinals were undefeated going into the game, so they were defending their record – while the Eagles, already with loss(es?) under their belt, were playing like they had nothing to lose.
It was a difficult game for the Cardinals, both mentally and physically. But the girls were tough, getting on base and scoring runs like nobody’s business once they got started.
Pitcher Emily Wingler showed a lot of toughness, going the distance and pitching the whole game after being down by 15 and getting whacked in the head with a line drive (which she caught).
Longtime Cards coach Gary Pickle deserves a lot of praise and respect, not just for this particular game, but for his tireless work coaching these girls. This guy is a gift to Cardinal athletics ... the John Wooden of high school softball, always able to field a top-tier team because of his wisdom and hard work coaching year in and year out. His coaching staff, of course, is also to be commended.
Not to degrade other local schools, or even the CLHS baseball, football, basketball and other programs … but it's my opinion that other high school games around here are rarely as exciting as Cardinal softball. Plus, I like knowing that when I show up for Cardinal softball, chances are my Cards are going to win, so I’ll go away happy!
If you’ve never attended a Cardinal softball game, you really should try it. No ticket charge, ample parking next to the field, great fans, and open bleacher seating (or bring your own chair). It’s a wonderful small-town experience for the whole family.
Thanks, CLHS softball, for making this Cardinal proud!
Eric Schlange lives in Lakeport, Calif.
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