WAYCROSS, GA - August 5, 2026 - The Ware County Lady Gators continued their strong start to the 2026 softball season Wednesday evening, turning in an impressive all-around performance to defeat the Tattnall County Battle Creek Warriors 8-0 at Gator Field.
Ware County controlled the contest from the opening inning, combining timely hitting, aggressive pressure on the Tattnall County defense, and a dominant performance in the circle from Teriayn Kirkland.
FORSYTH POWERS THE WARE COUNTY OFFENSE
Mattie Forsyth provided the biggest offensive punch of the night for the Lady Gators, driving home four runs to help Ware County pull away early.
The Lady Gators wasted little time putting runs on the scoreboard, striking for four runs in the bottom of the first inning. Ware County took advantage of a Tattnall County defensive miscue that allowed three runs to score before Addi Pittman delivered an RBI single to extend the early advantage.
Ware County went right back to work in the second.
Another Tattnall County error brought home a run before Forsyth delivered one of the biggest swings of the night, driving a double into the outfield that plated two more Lady Gators.
By the end of the second inning, Ware County had built a commanding lead and never looked back.
KIRKLAND DOMINANT IN THE CIRCLE
While the Lady Gator offense built the lead, Teriayn Kirkland made sure it was more than enough.
The right-hander was outstanding from start to finish, tossing five shutout innings and allowing just one hit. Kirkland struck out eight Tattnall County hitters while issuing only one walk, keeping the Battle Creek Warriors off balance throughout the evening.
Ware County's defense was equally impressive behind her.
The Lady Gators played error-free softball, taking care of every opportunity that came their way. Darah Durrance led the defensive effort with eight plays as Ware County kept Tattnall County from gaining any offensive momentum.
At the plate, Pittman turned in a perfect night, finishing 2-for-2 and driving in a run from the No. 7 spot in the Ware County lineup.
Tattnall County was limited to just one hit in the contest, recorded by Aubree Harris, as Kirkland and the Lady Gator defense completed the shutout.
The 8-0 victory gave Ware County another strong early-season performance in front of the home crowd at Gator Field.
UP NEXT - BRANTLEY COUNTY COMES TO GATOR FIELD
The Lady Gators have a quick turnaround as they return to action Thursday, August 6, when they welcome the Brantley County Herons to Gator Field for a JV/Varsity doubleheader.
JV First Pitch: 4:00 PM
Varsity: To Follow
Location: Gator Field - Ware County High School
Admission: $10.00
Tickets may be purchased online at GoFan.co or at the gate.
CLEAR BAG POLICY
Ware County Athletics' Clear Bag Policy will be in effect for Thursday's games. Fans are encouraged to plan accordingly before arriving at Gator Field to help ensure a smooth and efficient entry process.
PARENTAL SUPERVISION POLICY
Ware County Athletics' Parental Supervision Policy will also be in effect. School-age students and younger spectators should attend and remain under the appropriate supervision of a parent or responsible adult throughout the event. Fans are asked to follow all Ware County Schools and Ware County Athletics expectations while supporting our student-athletes.
NFHS Streaming, please click the link below:
Come out to Gator Field Thursday afternoon and support the Lady Gators as they continue the opening stretch of the 2026 season!
GO GATORS!
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