Canadian High School Coach Cay Parnell reported this week that freshman Lady Cat infielder Maude Culwell was among the 2019 1-3A softball All-District selections. Culwell’s teammates, Cierra Ross and Andrea Moreno each earned honorable mentions.

“I’m very thankful for Andrea and Cierra and their commitment to being a part of the beginning of this program,” said coach Parnell. “They showed a lot of leadership and worked hard.”

“Maude was a big surprise!” Parnell added. “She decided to come out for softball after basketball ended. She had never played before, but very quickly caught on. She got better and better every practice and every game. I am proud of her accomplishment and look forward to bigger and better things to come from her.”

The All-District team announcement was delayed by Bushland’s deep run into the playoffs, which ended last week with their 4-7, 8-1, 9-3 loss in the regional finals to Brock. Brock (33-6-0) was slated to face Rains (32-1) at 6 pm yesterday evening (Wednesday, May 29), in the 3A semifinals round at the University of Texas McCombs Field in Austin.

The 3A state finals are scheduled for 6 pm today (Thursday, May 30).

Not surprisingly, Bushland dominated the All-District team with seven selections, among them, junior co-MVPs Halle Lytal and McKenna Driver and Designated Hitter Jillian Howell, a freshman and the only unanimous selection.

The complete list of All-District selections follows:

Co-MVPs Halle Lytal and McKenna Driver, both juniors, Bushland; Pitcher Shiyan Lozano, freshman, River Road; Pitcher Clarissa Rejino, sophomore, Muleshoe; and Catcher Ashleigh Shelburne, senior, River Road;

Infielders Jillian Rojas, junior, Muleshoe; Emili Mora, junior, Muleshoe; Alexis Jenkins, senior, River Road; Maude Culwell, freshman, Canadian; Morgan Moore, junior, Bushland; Jaycee Adams, freshman, Bushland; Allie Ramirez, freshman, Tulia; and J.C. Sepeda, sophomore, Dimmitt;

Outfielders Corley Carr, sophomore, Bushland; Sydnee Stewart, sophomore, Bushland; Alexa Guzman, junior, River Road; Abriana Mendoza, senior, Muleshoe; and Dellany Martinez, senior, Muleshoe;

Utility Player Jazlynn San Miguel, freshman, Tulia; and Designated Hitter Jillian Howell, freshman, Bushland.

The Lady Cats wrapped up a winless inaugural season in April. After fighting for over three years to convince school trustees to add softball to the school curriculum, it is likely the team won’t be satisfied until they notch their first win in 2020.