The Calera Eagles bounced back from a challenging start to the weekend by securing victories over T.R. Miller and Stanhope Elmore during a series of games in Wetumpka on February 28, 2024. After suffering a heavy defeat against the Enterprise Wildcats, the Eagles displayed resilience and determination, ultimately achieving two significant wins.
Calera’s weekend began on a disappointing note with a **12-0** loss to the Enterprise Wildcats. The Eagles struggled from the outset, with Enterprise scoring early and often. The Wildcats managed to dominate the game, scoring one run in the first inning, four in the second, one in the third, and an impressive six in the fourth inning. Calera utilized two pitchers during the match; **Bristol Rodgers** gave up four runs on three hits in one inning, while **Stella Schilleci** took over, allowing eight runs on five hits over three innings, alongside three strikeouts and three walks.
Despite the setback, the Eagles regrouped effectively for their next contest against the T.R. Miller Tigers. Displaying aggression and a strong offensive strategy, Calera won decisively with a score of **12-2**. The scoring began early as **Mia Wade** led off the game with a walk, later stealing second base and scoring on a double from Schilleci. Shortly after, **Armiya Shamburger** hit a home run over the left-field wall, quickly putting the Eagles ahead **3-0**.
The Eagles continued their assault in the fourth inning. After a couple of walks, **Alexis Morgan** singled, and Wade followed with a bases-loaded single that brought in two runs, extending their lead. Schilleci continued her strong performance with another hit, bringing the score to **5-0**. Wade then stole home, and **Lexi Johnson** drove in another run, bringing the total to **8-0**. With a flurry of hits, Calera quickly reached **10-0** before T.R. Miller managed to score two runs in the bottom of the fourth. However, the Eagles responded immediately with two more runs, concluding the game at **12-2**. Rodgers earned the win with a stellar performance, not allowing any runs on no hits in three innings.
Following their successful outing against T.R. Miller, the Eagles faced the Stanhope Elmore Mustangs. The Mustangs began strong, scoring two runs early on, but Calera refused to be deterred. Wade again led off with a walk, and after a successful bunt from Schilleci, both players stole bases. Wade stole home during **Audrey McKnight**’s at-bat, tying the game at **2-2**.
The momentum shifted in Calera’s favor in the bottom of the fourth inning. **Brooklyn Taylor** led off with a double, setting the stage for Schilleci, who also doubled, putting runners in scoring position. Rodgers then singled, bringing Taylor home and taking the lead **4-2**. Shamburger capped off the inning with an impressive inside-the-park home run, extending the lead to **7-2**.
Though Stanhope Elmore managed to score once more, the Eagles maintained control. Rodgers finished the game as the winning pitcher, allowing only one run on six hits while striking out two batters.
With two victories under their belt, the Calera Eagles concluded February on a high note, looking forward to upcoming area play in March. The support of local sponsors, such as Coosa Pines Federal Credit Union, has been crucial in enhancing the visibility of the softball program this season.
