PH & NW atop standings thus far in softball

Back in the day, Northwood and PH were consistently atop the Hogo standings - and that day has returned. It's safe to say that every team has shown some improvement from last season.

Northwood: The first three games of the year had "dreadful season" written all over it for the Panthers. But since their one point loss to Marion on March 25th, the Cats from Panthertown have outscored their opponents 45-14. Including avenging a loss to JI Burton from earlier in the year and a whop over Region D's Honaker, the Panthers have won 5 straight and currently hold an unblemished district record. But they aren't the only ones undefeated in the district. Should both teams hold steady until May 1st, Patrick Henry and Northwood will battle it out for the top spot. Bring the kids, the baby sitter is going too.

Holston: Of 17 reported games last year, the Cavs allowed 10 or more runs in 10 of those games. And in 8 of those 10, they allowed 15 or more runs. No good. But thus far this season, despite not nabbing a win, the Lady Cavs have yet to allow over 8 runs and lost 3 of their 5 games by 2 or less points. Sure, it only matters if you win, but note that the Cavs softball team will be no push over. They've made close games out of losses to George Wythe, AA Abingdon (twice), and Hogo front-runner Northwood. Expect the Cavs to grab an upset soon and maybe even a 3 seed in the tournament.

Chilhowie: This year's Chilhowie team appears to be improved from last year but still middle-row in the Hogo. They were hammered in their district opener to PH 16-2, but since then have played well on defense and moved to 3-2 in the district. The Warriors have Holston next (April 21st) which is sure to be a closer game than most would expect.

George Wythe: G-Dub is the name, Inconsistency is the game. In their first three games, the Roons gave up a combined 39 points to Auburn, Fort Chiswell, and Pulaski County - and even won one of those games. In the last 5 games, despite going 2-3, the Roons have only given up 20 runs. Definitely a steady improvement, but not good enough. It's appearing as though George Wythe, Chilhowie, and Holston will be duking it out for that third spot - the Maroons could get ahead of the group early with an upset win over PH in Wytheville on April 21.

Patrick Henry: With 10 games remaining on their season schedule, the Rebels are just 2 wins shy of matching their win total from last season and find themselves in a good position nested in the top of the standings. Northwood sits a little higher for having posted 3 district wins, PH has only 2. One would have to think PH is the better team given the stiffer competition. Thus far the Rebels have nabbed wins over always dominant Virginia High, much larger Tennessee schools Sullivan North and Morristown West, and rivals John Battle and Abingdon. The Rebels are for real and it probably has a lot to do with those Haynes sisters I keep hearing about. Needless to say, this season isn't over yet - the Rebels still must face George Wythe and Northwood twice.

Rural Retreat: While not much is known on the Indians this season, having only three games reported, they are indeed struggling. However, the season is long and they still have a good portion of district play remaining. An upset here and a close game there will be enough to build the team's character and help rebuild the program. The season is already long enough, make the most of it.