If you have seen a Starr's Mill Lady Panther softball game,

you have inevitably heard the chants. The girl's in the dugout

constantly cheer the person at the plate, with a brand of rhymes that put

Snoop Dogg to shame. One part psyche out, one part rally ritual,

the chants have become a part of a Starr's Mill game and this year, the Lady Panthers

have a lot to cheer about.

There are still no seniors at Starr's Mill which

means that the entire squad will return next year,

stronger, smarter and more mature. The team leaders are

shortstop Jamie Vining and third baseman with a

combined 18 years of softball experience. It shows in their

defense and their patience at the plate. They are definitely

athletic, both girls also play basketball for Starr's

Mill. Vining is a point guard for the Lady Panthers and

Scott is a forward.

While Sarah seems to want to strictly pursue

softball in her future and is unsure of what field of study

she would undertake in college, Jamie wishes to get a

scholarship for either sport and enroll in a sports

medicine program. It is not out of the question for either of

them. They are both excellent students,strictly A's and B's,

who have successfully balanced their time between

scholastics and athletics.

As you look at the girls, they look no different

from any other high school age girl you may see at the

movies or the mall on any given weekend. However, it is

when they take the field that their game faces come on.

Game faces like those you see on Sportscenter, eyes that

pierce and lock on to the ball wherever it is being played.

They are aware of the mechanics of the game and play

smart ball. They know who they have to beat to get

respect and they are very aware of the improvements

they've made in this season alone. They might be a longshot

in the state tournament this year, but these tournaments

are notorious for their surprises. Don't be surprised if

you hear the chants, the Lady Panthers are up and coming.

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