Sophomore Taryn Ford played a massive role in the Carterville Lions’ 2A Softball State Title this year, filling whatever role was needed from her.  Whether it was holding down the mound from the start of the game, coming in to slam the door shut as a closer, or stepping up to the plate and driving in the game-winning run, Ford was up to the challenge.  Those qualities are what led MaxPreps to name Ford their Illinois Player of the Year on Tuesday.

Here is what MaxPreps had to say about Ford:

“Ford and teammate Caidence Phillips were two of the most dominant pitchers in the state. Ford was sensational during a 1-0 victory over North Boone in the state championship game, striking out 16 in six innings of work and hitting the walk-off base hit to win it all in the bottom of the seventh inning.”

The Lions finished the year ranked the #13 softball team in the nation according to MaxPreps and the top team in Illinois.  They were 38-1, finishing the season on a 38-game win streak.

MaxPreps’ Players of the Year article can be found here.