Congratulations to the South Williamsport Lady Mounties as they recently punched their tickets to the Little League Softball World Series. These ladies have captured the hearts of the entire region with their outstanding play. The gals were crowned the Eastern Regional champs and are now en route to Portland, OR to compete against the world’s very best. Kudos to them, their coaches, parents, and fans. Well done kids.

I’ve known their manager Cory Goodman for many years. He was a few grades behind me in school, and we were in the same circle of friends. Cory was a standout baseballer for the Williamsport Millionaires. He then moved on to play at Mansfield U. Cory always worked hard, with a great personality and a low key demeanor. I believe these qualities helped with his transition to softball. My man also has some lovely natural hair.

I reached out to Cory the night before the Eastern Regional Championship. I sent him a short note wishing him the best and asked for just a few minutes. Cory got back to me right away, and he told me he’d touch base when he was free. Beautiful. I only needed a few quotes, and I really didn’t want to bother him. Cory and the girls were awfully busy. The past three games were on the ESPN family of networks. The gals were staying on-site in Bristol, CT, completely isolated from their parents. The setup is very similar to the Grove at Little League International. I’m not comparing it to Fort Knox, but there was limited interaction with the players and their families and fans. I totally understood that they were in high demand. Again. They were super busy, and I didn’t want to be a distraction.

Then Coach’s phone rang. Six straight times. I don’t know where he was at that moment. Maybe Cory was at practice or giving another interview. I could only imagine his look when he had half a dozen missed calls. Excessive and out control pocket dials. I didn’t realize my mishap until an hour or so later and sent the following plea.

“Totally my bad Coach. I didn’t mean to call you several times. My phone was in my pocket, and I was mowing the lawn. I’m so sorry — dumb user. Please give me a call when you can. Like to give you and your gals some love in the Webb Weekly.”

Cory returned my calls later that evening. We had a terrific conversation. I haven’t seen or talked to him in some while. Occasionally, we’d cross paths in town or at the Liberty Arena. So I spent the first few minutes apologizing. These awkward situations only tend to happen to a part-time freelancing scribe.

“We are playing some great ball right now,” Coach explained. “We are also winning in a variety of ways. Alizabeth (Shuler) is pitching well, and the gals are playing great defense behind her. We were a tad nervous that first night, but the girls found some confidence behind the plate. We try to keep it simple and put the pressure on the other team. The girls have really bought into this concept, and they are doing an unbelievable job of putting the ball in play.”

South Williamsport finished the Regional Tournament with a 4-0 record. They defeated New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Connecticut twice. South Side believes that everyone has a role, and Coach Goodman and his staff make sure that everything is focused on the common goal. Every player on the roster is just as important as the other.

“The girls have been amazing all summer,” Cory continued. “They come to practice ready to work. The amount of compliments that I have received about our behavior and performances throughout the State and Regional Tournament has been overwhelming. I couldn’t ask for a better group. It’s been an unforgettable ride. We are hoping to continue for another week.”

The community has also rallied. South Williamsport Little League Softball is definitely trending. Several local businesses have hosted “watch” parties and showcase many signs. This total team effort has taken the region by storm. People are rooting for the Blue and White, regardless of where they are from.

“We can’t say enough about the folks who have helped.” Goodman eluded. “There are way too many individuals and businesses to name. The support from the community has been amazing. The team and I haven’t been home to see it in person, but the pictures are blowing up our phones. Our coaching staff, parents, and fans have always been there too. They have stepped up big time. It has been a wonderful summer of softball.”

Best wishes to Coach Cory and the gals as they head out to Oregon. Congratulations to Mikiaya Hills, Kendall Cordone, Lily Reidy, Gianna Goodman, Alizabeth Shuler, Chelsey Harrison, Sage Lorson, Abby Lorson, Lynna Clark, Lacey Kriebal, Lili Cox and Emily Holtzapple on a job well done. Continued successes, ladies. We are very proud of you and your incredible achievements. Cheers.