Saluda softball plays in first-ever state series, leans on Dixie Champs
SALUDA, SC. (WRDW/WAGT) - The Saluda softball team isn’t just playing for a trophy—they’re playing for legacy.
This weekend, the Tigers continue on in the SCHSL Class 2A state title series against East Clarendon..
It’s their first ever appearance in final series of the season.
“We’ve done things that most people don’t think we can and how we’ve gotten so far, and I think people would just be very proud of our little group and expect a lot from the next couple of years,” said outfielder Taylor Wideman.
“If you would have asked me three years from now, obviously a coach always wants to win state, but I wouldn’t have expected it so soon. It means a lot. I know it means a lot to the girls. It means a lot to me to just have this opportunity and be the one that’s leading the way,” said coach Hannah Towery.
34-year-old killed in shooting on Madrid Drive
34-year-old Brandon Johnson was shot at least once on the 3600 block of Madrid Drive on May 25.
This season the Tigers fought their way into the Upper State title against Ninety-Six. Soon after, they found themselves playing in the final series of the season against East Clarendon.
The Tigers dropped game one of the series, 2-1. Game two was rained out in Saluda.
At this point of the season, it’s about not letting the game get too big. They have plenty of experience playing in that department, 9 on this playoff run roster have won Dixie State and World series titles.
Which has proven to be beneficial this late.
“They’ve grown up, a lot of them just grown up playing softball. So it makes my job a little bit easier because I’m not having to teach them how to throw, how to catch. They already know how to do those things, and they love the game,” said Towery.
Graduates in Richmond and Aiken counties walk across the stage this week
Graduates at Academy of Richmond County, Davidson Fine Arts and Aiken County Career and Technology Center walked across the stage on Wednesday.
Even the seniors see it.
“They’ve been in tough situations, and they know what to do in tough situations. I don’t think they’re as nervous as they should be, but I don’t think they’re as nervous as people usually are when they play varsity,” said Wideman.
Plus an extra day of practice helps too.
“Everything happens for a reason, and it always works out how it’s supposed to in the end. We talked about we get a little bit of extra time with the girls, spend a little extra time with them. At the end of the day, it’s out of our control,” said Towery. “We’re just going to trust the plan that’s in place.”
The Tigers play Saturday at 7 p.m. at Saluda High School in game 2.
Copyright 2025 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
