Jags softball staff earns NFCA award

The National Fastpitch Coaches Association has recognized Spain Park High School for the softball season it put together during the spring season.

The Lady Jags' coaching staff, led by C.J. Hawkins, was honored by the NFCA as the South Region Coaching Staff of the Year award, as announced on Thursday.

That staff led Spain Park to its best softball finish in school history, taking home the Class 7A runner-up trophy at the AHSAA state tournament in late May.

On their way to Montgomery, the Lady Jags won the Area 6 Tournament and the top qualifier from the North Central Regional, en route to a final record of 40-19.

Hawkins was assisted by Ryan Thompson, Eric Gibbons, Chad Miller, Jason Zajac, and Allyson Ritenour, who will take over as head coach of the Berry Middle School softball team next year.