By Sandy Anderberg
In a season that was full to the brim with successes, the 2025 Lady Bronco softball team will long be remembered not only for their history-making time on the diamond, but for their energy, comradery, dedication, academic excellence, and every other descriptive word that can be thought of.
Despite being eliminated in the State semi-final round by the Riesel Lady Indians this past week, the Lady Broncos are winners in every aspect of the game and in life. The seniors of this of this history-making team will move on to their next adventure as they pass the bat to very capable underclassmen.
The Lady Broncos gave their all in the State semi-final game, but dropped game one 1-13 and game two 2-12. Head Coach Brad Elam could not say enough about the Lady Bronco team.
“I’m very proud of these young ladies and all they have accomplished,” Elam said. “It was so fun to watch how they have grown and developed in softball and in their love for each other and God. I could not have asked for a better group.”
Losing has not been common for the ladies who finished at 30-6-1 for the season defeating teams by double numbers and limited innings. The loss to Riesel broke an eight-game winning streak that allowed the Lady Broncos a District, Bi-District, Area, Regional Semi-Final, Regional Final golden glove trophy before adding the State Semi-Final game to their resume.
All season long, the dynamic duo of Tandie and Kennadie Cummins was lethal on the mound, and Hayden Elam was vigorous behind the plate. Maloree Wann owned first base, and Riley Jantz and Shebi Coles grabbed everything hit to the outfield. Chelsea Wright and Gracie Wilkins gave their all for the team as well. Guided by Elam and Jordan Enriquez the team became a determined group to be reckoned with. Backed up by a group of very talented underclassmen, the Lady Broncos’ future is bright to say the least.
However, saying good-bye is not easy. Not only do the underclassmen have to say good-bye to their senior leaders, they are saying so long to one of Clarendon’s best coaches. In his 22 years at Clarendon, Elam is retiring. His success at CHS will go down in history along with the Lady Broncos. Elam spent his first years at Clarendon at the helm of the Bronco Baseball team, which had many successes on the field and participated in numerous playoff games. Who knew four years ago when Elam made the change that his last year, along with daughter Hayden, would be one for the record books. Elam has definitely made a difference at CHS and will be missed along with Enriquez who will be moving on to River Road.
Thank you, 2025 Lady Broncos, you lit Clarendon on fire and played every sport with intensity and determination, and another year is knocking at the door. Seniors, what a ride; you will be missed, but never forgotten.
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