Written by Nic Fraraccio // Photo provided by Harding Softball
The Harding softball team has continued to win games, earn awards and make history throughout the 2023 season.
The Lady Bisons are currently tied for second place in the conference standings with a conference record of 20-7. The players and coaching staff have continued to provide memorable moments during this historic season.
Lady Bisons head coach Ashley Reeves earned her 100th career win as a head coach after the 3-0 victory against Ouachita Baptist University April 7. Reeves began her collegiate coaching career at Abilene Christian University in 2011. Before coaching in Abilene, Reeves coached the Harding Academy softball team for three seasons.
Assistant coach Chris Wiman said Reeves tries to communicate self-confidence and competitiveness when coaching the Lady Bisons.
“When these girls leave softball, they’re going to understand that you’ve got to compete in everything you do,” Wiman said.
As Reeves and the Lady Bisons racked up wins, sophomore outfielder Macy Smith contributed to the team’s success by leading the team in batting average and sitting in second for fielding percentage.
Smith said it was a special moment to be a part of Reeves’ 100th career win but expects more success to come as the season concludes.
“Getting to be a part of her 100th win is a big deal,” Smith said. “We’ve broken a lot of records this year, and I think we’re looking forward to breaking a lot more.”
Junior Abby Burch also made school history on Tuesday against Christian Brothers. Burch broke the all-time school record for career saves after recording her 23rd career save against the Buccaneers. Burch surpassed Emma Dwyer’s record of 22 saves during her four-year career as a Lady Bison.
Burch said she loves being able to close games for the Lady Bisons and is motivated to pitch well as the season concludes.
“It’s motivating me to do better and continuously get wins for my team,” Burch said.
The Lady Bisons have also gained attention from the Great American Conference (GAC) committee.
Sophomore pitcher Riley Price was named GAC Pitcher of the Week in three consecutive weeks. Price joined the Lady Bisons in the fall after transferring from University of Texas at Tyler.
Price has thrown eight complete games during her first season as a Lady Bison. Price also leads the team in wins and strikeouts during the 2023 season.
Harding will continue conference play today as they travel to Ada, Oklahoma, to face the East Central University Tigers.
