That’s it! Indoor sports came to a close this past week as the Lady Panthers travelled to Shinnston for regional level competition against the Lady Cougars of Lincoln High School.

It must have been bus lag for the Lady Panthers because they could not get their game kicked into a high gear. Lincoln came in and wiped the floor in the first period, outscoring the Lady Panthers 9-22. It was all downhill from there; the Lady Panthers couldn’t get the shots to drop in the first half, managing just 17 points. Mistakes will also kill your chances of a win, and the Lady Panthers handed the ball to their opponent on a few occasions.

However, they had a chance at getting the game back in the third as Lincoln High School was also making their share of mistakes, but the Lady Panthers could not capitalize, and the game went into a spiral spin to the sea. In the end, it was Lincoln getting the chance to be in the final eight in Charleston. The final score was Clay 38, Lincoln 62.

With basketball and wrestling being over, it can only mean one thing – outdoor sports, spring, warm weather, gardens, fishing. The shoals of the mighty Elk River will turn to small jaw heaven and bend the poles of the fisherman who will line the banks.

Baseball and softball are gearing up at CCHS and CCMS, as well. The teams are being picked and will be in heavy practice mode. There is some real talent in this year’s teams all around the diamond, and it will be a fast and furious season, so get set. The Panther baseball and Lady Panther fast pitch softball teams are oiling up the mitts and rotator cuffs in preparation for their fun in the sun. They will be young but ready.

Softball and baseball teams are forming at CCMS. The Lady Mustangs will be under new management and are already showing signs that they will be tough to beat. Frank Kleman will return as head coach of the Mustang baseball team and will no doubt have a good team put together. The CCHS track team will also be coming back with a full arsenal of athletes, and they get better each year. Returning to the lineup will be senior and state champion Trevor Armes who looks to repeat his phenomenal championship run from last year.

Spring is in the air, and sports will soon be in full swing. Get out and enjoy it!