The Hartselle Lady Tigers softball program and Coach Christy Ferguson said goodbye to eight graduating seniors following the final loss in this year’s state tournament.

The eight seniors are Kallie Cartee, Kylie Winton, Emily Cowart, Morgyn Sparkman, Mackenzie Jackson, Hannah Grace Bevis, Amber Crittenden and Mallorie Kauffman.

These seniors finished their high school careers as part of one of the most successful groups that have played at Hartselle. They have left their mark in the state record books and in the Hartselle softball record books, as well.

As seniors they combined for a .344 batting average, 251 hits, 44 home runs, 202 RBIs and 191 runs scored. They finish with a career record of 129-81 and the 2018 6A State Championship.

“They are all student-athletes who will be successful in all they do,” Ferguson said. “To say I will miss them is an understatement. They have been part of my life since the first day they walked in my gym in sixth grade at HJHS for physical education.”

Ferguson shared her thoughts about each of her eight seniors.

Kalli Cartee – Signed with Wallace State Community College

“I knew Kalli would have an impact immediately in our program the first day of her freshman year. She did not disappoint. She is a natural with speed and power. She never does anything half way; she is always at full speed.

“You always know where you stand with Kalli. That is one of the qualities that I love about her. Wallace State is getting a good one.”

Cartee finished her senior season with a .450 batting average, 59 hits, eight home runs, 49 RBIs and 46 runs scored.

Kylie Winton – Signed with UAH

“The first time I saw Kylie in the batting cage as a freshman, I told Coach Hall that we might have something special with that swing. Her quick hands and eye for the ball have been gamechanging for our team.

“Kylie has been a leader both in the classroom and on the field – the total package – and she will go and do great things at UAH.”

Winton finished her senior season with a .408 batting average, 53 hits, 15 home runs, 43 RBIs and 63 runs scored.

Emily Cowart – Signed with Calhoun Community College

“To know Emily is to love her. Emily has anchored our team and been a vital part to our success. Practices will be a little less entertaining and quiet next year.

“Emily has worked hard and done all that we have asked of her and more. A smile will greet you, and her memory will be everlasting in my heart and mind. Calhoun will be very fortunate to have her as their catcher next year.”

Cowart finished her senior season with a .398 batting average, 51 hits, 12 home runs, 48 RBIs and 13 runs scored.

Morgyn Sparkman – Signed with Calhoun Community College

“A small package full of heart and determination, Morgyn has been our go-to on the mound for two years – pitching hurt for most of her career and never letting it affect her.

“Her knowledge of each batter and how she wanted to pitch to them is one of her greatest qualities. She ends her career as one of the best pitchers to have played for Hartselle Softball.

“Her presence on the mound will be missed. Calhoun is getting a good one.”

Sparkman finished her senior season with a 16-6 record, 125.2 innings pitched, 68 strikeouts and a 3.56 ERA in 30 games. Her career record is 45-11.

Mackenzie Jackson – Signed with the University of Mobile

“Hard worker, perfectionist and great teammate are just a few words to describe Mack. She has been a fixture at first base for three years and is one of the best.

“She is always striving to make sure she does everything right, and I admire her for that. She is going to fit in and make a definite impact next year at the University of Mobile.”

Jackson finished her senior season with a .309 batting average, 38 hits, seven home runs, 39 RBIs and 29 runs scored.

Hannah Grace Bevis – Will attend the University of Alabama on academic scholarship

“One of our best surprises this year was Hannah Grace’s play at second base. Quiet, hard-working, determined and smart are some of the words that come to mind when thinking of HG. She leads by example and will definitely be very successful in her life.

“I will miss her and her wonderful ‘committed to the team’ attitude.”

Bevis finished her senior season with a .270 batting average, 30 hits, two home runs, 15 RBIs and 13 runs scored.

Amber Crittenden – Will attend the Auburn University on academic scholarship

“Unselfish, a true teammate and team cheerleader are qualities that best describe Amber. She anchored our DP position this year and accepted her role and never complained.

“Amber could always be counted on to be the realistic one of the group of seniors. Her hard work in the classroom has paid off, as she is headed to Auburn University in the fall.”

Crittenden finished her senior season with a .245 batting average, 12 hits, five RBIs and five runs scored.

Mallorie Kauffman – Will attend Calhoun Community College

“Mallorie joined this group her sophomore year. She has been a wonderful addition to our group of outfielders.

“Her speed is her greatest attribute. She used that speed to her advantage many times on the base paths. She leads by example and is always helping others to get better.

Kauffman finished her senior season with a .235 batting average, eight hits, three RBIs and 22 runs scored.

“I hope they know how proud I am of each one of them,” said Ferguson. “When I look back on their careers, I smile with love and appreciation in my heart for them.”