In the state quarter final game against Doniphan Senior Pitcher Gabby Merrifield threw a complete game shutout to propel the Wildcats to the final four for the first time since 2011. Gabby had seven strikeouts in the game with a 74% strike percentage. This was a great showing for Gabby and proves how crucial she is the the Wildcat team.

“You can only do so much without good pitching in the game of softball, and for the last 4 years, Gabby has allowed us to reach our full potential as a team.” Said varsity softball coach Dan Petke

Gabby has been the go-to pitcher since her freshman year and has been the cornerstone of the team and its developments the past four years. Gabby throws many different pitches and is able pick her corners in the strike zone to keep the other team guessing. She is an amazing leader with a lot of softball knowledge that propels the team. 

“I love catching for Gabby because she is such a consistent pitcher and I love seeing the movement on her pitches as she has continued to improve through these past three years I have been lucky enough to catch for her” Said junior catcher Ellie Berkland.

Merrifield has been preparing diligently this week for the upcoming state tournament. She is excited to lead to team in its first final four appearance since 2011 and second trip to state ever.

“I am super excited to go to State and spend time with my team and play together one last time.  I am looking forward to finishing out my senior year strong but also my ten year long softball career.” Said senior pitcher Gabby Merrifield. 

The cats will play Fatima in the State Semi finals at 12:00pm on Friday at the Killian Sports Complex in Springfield Missouri. If the team wins they will play in the state championship game at 12:15 on Saturday and if they lose they will play a second game Friday afternoon for third and fourth place.