Strawberry Crest’s Tuesday night softball game against Spoto was more than just another win on the Chargers’ record.
The team made it a point to honor two groups of people: those who have inspired them, and those killed in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting on Feb. 14. The ceremonies were held before and after the game, which was held at Strawberry Crest.
Tuesday’s first pitch ceremony saw every member of the Chargers roster throw to someone who, according to the team, has inspired them most on the softball field. Each player’s ball was customized with a written message, often thanking their inspirations for playing important roles in their lives as parents, siblings, friends and coaches.
“We just wanted to find a way to honor and give thanks to the people who helped us get to where we are today,” junior Emma Cooper said. “I think this is a really great way to do it because it’s simple, but it’s very meaningful.”
Rather than have everyone throw together at once, each Charger and her inspirational person took turns pitching as the PA announcer introduced them to the crowd. The team felt it was the best way to let every individual feel as appreciated as possible.
“My dad’s been with me the whole time I’ve been playing softball. He’s my biggest supporter,” senior Celia Higgins said. “My biggest pusher. Always pushing me to be the best.”
After the first pitch ceremony, the Chargers beat the Spartans, 15-0, in three innings.
After the game, the team held a candlelight vigil for the 17 deceased victims of the Stoneman Douglas shooting. Strawberry Crest purchased 500 candles to hand out for the vigil, which was an idea the team had shortly after the incident. Seventeen Crest students held photos of the shooting victims and banners showing solidarity between the two schools were displayed.
“We just think it’s a terrible tragedy,” Cooper said. “There’s not much we can do about it, other than try to honor the lives that were lost. It’s kind of our way to help the families cope, and to help remember them.”