GREENCASTLE -- The Greencastle-Antrim High School girls softball team received special recognition this week from state and local officials for its achievement as the 2009 PIAA Class AAA state champions.

State Rep. Todd Rock, R-Mont Alto, presented the team members with individual citations, honoring their accomplishment. That was followed by special recognition given by Greencastle Borough Council, and Borough Manager Kenneth Womack.

Council is now exploring a request for roadside signs that acknowledge the success of the team.

"I watched the game and anyone who thinks low-scoring games are not exciting should have watched this one," Rock said. "It was a real nail-biter."

Rock said that on June 12, the Lady Blue Devils, "in a hard-fought, overtime victory," defeated Bethlehem Catholic by a score of 1-0.

"Rachel Kline drove in the winning run to score teammate Meghin Palmer, which sealed the shutout victory for pitcher Autumn Appleby," he said. "This victory also earned the high school its first state girls softball title ever."

Rock shared his comments before a packed room at the start of the borough council meeting. He told the audience that he grew up playing sports through high school and into college, and that he has two daughters who have played different sports, including high school softball.

"I also have experience in coaching, so I know firsthand as a player, as a parent and as a coach what it takes to compete at this level," Rock

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said. "It takes hard work, dedication, teamwork and sacrifice. This team has obviously displayed all of these characteristics and that is why they are now state champions."

Each council member offered words of praise.

"I congratulate you for a job well done," said Councilman Duane Kinzer. He asked council for permission to note the team's accomplishment on a sign and display it beneath the "Welcome to Greencastle" signs now posted.

A committee will be formed to consider the sign request.

Councilman Harry Foley said the team made council and the borough very proud.

Congratulations are due to the entire school, said Councilman Craig Myers. He said he couldn't wait for another good season next year.

Council President Charles Eckstine acknowledged the leadership for the team. Success in any organization starts at the top, he said.

Womack said that in games like the ones that were played, athletes learn they don't quit when they're tired. They learn to play as a team and sometimes they learn to lose.

As for the recent accomplishment, he said the players will never lose that experience or its memory in their hearts, and that it would be something they'd be proud of for the rest of their lives.

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Roscoe Barnes III can be reached at 262-4762 or rbarnes@publicopinionnews.com.