The Pryor Lady Tigers came into the 2016 season looking to capture a state title that just barely eluded them in 2015. Last season, the Lady Tigers lost 2-1 in extra innings in the state title game to district rival Collinsville. This season, Pryor was determined to return to the state title game.
The Lady Tigers started the season 9-5, after only losing seven games all of last season. After an Aug. 23 loss to Collinsville, the Lady Tigers went on a tear, winning 14 of their next 16 games. Pryor finished the regular season with a 27-10 record overall and an 11-3 record in district play. That record was good for a second place finish in the district, right behind Collinsville.
Once the playoffs began, coach Mark Dicus’ team started playing its best softball of the season. The Lady Tigers outscored their opponents 50-8 and didn’t allow more than three runs in a game during the regional and state tournaments. Hunter Gilstrap and pitcher Olivia Rains stepped up for the Lady Tigers. Both played a key role in helping Pryor secure the title. With a relatively young roster, and Rains coming back, the Lady Tigers should be one of the favorites and have a great chance to repeat next season. After back-to-back 30-win seasons, coach Dicus has laid the groundwork for a dynasty at Pryor.
ROSTER
1 Olivia Cummings
2 Havannah Stites
4 Kailyn Howard
5 Maeme Ward
6 MKayla Hillman
7 Kennedy Cramer
8 Sami Dale
10 Payton White
22 Halee Nichols
23 Hunter Gilstrap
25 Olivia Rains
29 McKenzie Pathkiller
