By J.R. Tidwell / Editor

A group of young softball players was recognized during the Chilton County Lady Tigers’ game against county rival Thorsby March 8 in Clanton.

Members of the Jaguars Elite 10 and Under travel softball team stood on the field with the CCHS players and were honored after the contest in what was dubbed “Future Stars” night.

“The Jaguars travel ball organization has been around for about 15 years now,” said Jaguars 10 and Under coach Jody Williams.

“The girls on our team are all from Clanton, Jemison, Thorsby, Maplesville and some from Millbrook. Our organization is probably one of the top rated travel ball organizations in Chilton County.”

The Jaguars have a team for age groups running from 8 and Under to 16 and Under. Each team in the organization competes in USSSA.

“Our season started March 3 in Hoover, and it ends with the world series in Gulf Shores in July,” Williams said. “We go to Hoover, Cullman, Alexander City, Fultondale; we go all over to play.”

According to Williams “most” of the girls on Chilton County High’s softball team either were Jaguars or still are.

“They brought all the girls out with the CCHS players and they took a picture together,” he said. “This lets our girls see where they can be in a couple of years. It let’s them have something to look forward to.

“They loved every aspect of it. They got to talk and interact with the high school girls, which makes them feel good.”

Williams said high school coaches are benefited by the work done by players and coaches on travel ball teams during that season.

“High school coaches only have a certain amount of time to work with their players,” he said. “When girls compete in travel ball, it helps prepare them for the high school season.”