The Ware County Lady Gators hit the road Monday for Round One of the GHSA Class AAAA State Softball Playoffs, taking on the Walnut Grove Lady Warriors in a tough doubleheader series. Despite showing fight and flashes of power throughout both contests, the Lady Gators’ season came to a close after falling in back-to-back games to the defending state contenders.
Game One: Big Fourth Inning Swings Momentum
Ware County struck first in the opening game thanks to a powerful home run from Amberley Padgett, who launched a solo shot over the left field fence in the top of the fourth inning. The blast gave the Lady Gators a brief lead, but Walnut Grove responded in a major way in the bottom half of the frame - plating nine runs on seven hits to seize control and ultimately take a 10 - 2 win.
Teriayn Kirkland started in the circle for Ware County, recording four strikeouts across three and two-thirds innings. Padgett led the Gator offense with two RBIs, while Ella Musgrove added a hit of her own. Despite solid defensive play early, the big fourth inning proved too much to overcome as Walnut Grove’s bats came alive behind a strong pitching performance from Gracie Starrett, who struck out nine over six innings.
Game Two: Late Rally Falls Short
In the second matchup, the Lady Gators showed their resilience and offensive power, battling back and forth in a high scoring affair. After falling behind early, Ware County answered in the bottom of the first when Teriayn Kirkland ripped a double and Amberley Padgett followed with an RBI single to tie things up.
The Lady Gators erupted in the third inning, scoring five runs on three hits to take a 7 - 4 lead. Kara Coleman delivered the key hit of the frame, a two - RBI single that gave Ware County its largest advantage of the day.
However, Walnut Grove mounted a late comeback, pushing across five runs in the top of the seventh to reclaim the lead and secure a 10 - 7 victory.
Kirkland pitched five and two-thirds innings in relief, striking out five. Coleman led the Gators with two RBIs, while Ashlyn Jacobs posted a team-high two hits.
Congratulations to the Lady Gators on a strong 2025 campaign and for proudly representing Ware County in postseason play.
Go Gators!