The Republic Youth Softball program is plenty healthy if this week’s first-ever banquet is any indication. Well over 200 people turned out to celebrate the past year of the program, which includes several youth teams of all ages up to middle school.
The night also featured a surprise honor for former Republic pitcher Rachel Rook, who was inducted into the newly formed Republic Softball Hall of Fame.
Republic softball head coach Lee Dishman said the attendance is an indicator of the health of Republic’s softball program.
“The fact that so many people took the time to come and support this program shows how involved our community is in the softball family,” Dishman said. “Our girls felt honored and special tonight in front of all their fans. As a coach, it just fills my heart to see these girls smile and take pride in wearing the Republic colors.
“Republic softball at the high school level is going to benefit from this program so much. I feel like our girls deserve these opportunities at a young age, but more importantly we give them a positive experience by building these young girls up.”
