New leader to guide Lady Urchins

It was only a year ago that Andy Kirk led West Union to their first ever state championship in slow pitch softball. Moving across county to take over a familiar East Union squad, Kirk now looks to take the Lady Urchins to that same level.

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“They were pretty well taken care of under both Coach (Brad)Brown and Coach (Kelly) Robbins, so we’ve mostly been working on getting to know one another and working in my strategy,” Kirk said. “The kids have worked extremely hard and battling the heat. We’re doing all we can given those circumstances, but overall, I’m extremely impressed with their discipline and respect.”

East Union loses three big bats in Amy McCullough, Sunnie Knighton and Carly Mahon. Focusing on the up and coming talent, Kirk feels he has a young, but strong squad to make another playoff push this season.

“They’re eager and hungry to win. We lost some big bats with  Sunnie Knighton, Amy McCullough and Carly Mahon graduating. That’s three infielders and bats from the middle of the order that you can’t replace,” he said. “Our goal is to work in the new blood and to be in a good place when we start division play.”

Division play will feature match-ups against Ashland, Hickory Flat and Walnut with the focus being to earn one of the two playoff spots from the division.

“It’s a whole different crew in 2A, so making the playoffs is what we’re shooting for,” Kirk said. “We have our first division game on August 31, so we’re working for that and making sure we have the right 10 girls fielding as well as batting. We have a few weeks to work out some kinks, but they’re doing everything I expect from them and having good discipline and manners is winning half the battle with me. They’re enjoyable to be around; nice and respectful.”

Chelsea Kuhn and Callie Jo Winters are seniors returning that Kirk will look to for leadership. Heather Dillard and Rachel Elder also bring back big bats for the Lady Urchins.

“We’re pretty young, so we have some sophomores and juniors who are going to have to work on being successful in different positions,” he said.

Assisting Kirk is Pam Warrington, who was a standout at  both Itawamba AHS and Itawamba Community College.

“Pam brings a lot of knowledge and experience to the program having won a state title at ICC,” Kirk explained. “We’re excited to have her working with us.

East Union will play pre-season games against West Union and New Albany at Myrtle.