Kynleigh Kirby, Pampa softball, So.
On the diamond: Kirby did everything possible to get Pampa to the regional quarterfinal round for the first time in seven years. In the Lady Harvesters series win over Fort Stockton in the Class 4A Area round last weekend, the sophomore gave a gutsy effort in the circle earning both victories. During a 10-1 win in Game 1, Kirby tossed a complete game, allowing one run with seven strikeouts. In a decisive Game 3 victory, 5-2, Kirby stepped up tossing all seven innings with nine K’s, surrendering only two runs. Kirby was even key at the plate going 3-for-4 in the first game with three doubles with two RBIs. On the season, Kirby is 22-4 overall in 164 innings pitched, accumulating an eye-opening 209 strikeouts.
Coach Dottie Hawthorne : “Kynleigh was able to dig deep and showed a lot of grit to help us win the series against Fort Stockton. That’s the kind of player she is. She knows when to step up, and when her team needs her the most. She is always someone who performs at a high level when called upon. Off the field, Kynleigh is the same way. She’s amazing in the classroom, she’s a great teammate, and coaches our Little League program’s here in Pampa.”
Kirby: “It was an awesome weekend. We came together as a team, and we had great coaching. Everyone contributed, and we just want to keep playing softball. We’re a young team, so I feel every week we just keep getting better. I was extremely proud of the way I pitched against For Stockton. That was a tough series and it took everything out of me. But, I’m just excited we’re moving on.”
About Kirby
Favorite band or musician: Cody Johnson.
Favorite social media platform: Instagram
Favorite athlete: Jocelyn Alo
Bet you didn’t know: She coaches a 10U softball team in the summers.
Parents: Candace Kirby.