Game Details - Softball

After losing last years’ championship series to West Jordan, Salem Hills felt like it had something to prove in this year’s 5A state tournament. The Sky Hawks started strong and earned a 13-1 mercy-rule win over West Field to advance to day two. It also beat Springville 7-0 in the first round of the 5A tournament. “I think there's been questions of, ‘Is Salem for real?’ all year,” said Salem Hills coach Kaleb Stokes. “We were there last year and I think people were wondering, ‘Are they good enough to get back?’ It's been a driving force this year for our girls and they're just playing their game.” Salem Hills had the at-bats going all game. The Sky Hawks totaled 11 hits, five of which were homeruns. Audree Stokes, Adalun Mattinson and Aliyah Elmer each hit one home run while Leila Stevenson had two and totaled five RBIs. “We got a lot of fastballs this game and we just didn't miss them,” Stokes said. Through both of its games on Tuesday, Salem Hills surrendered only a single run. “It starts with Jo (Norman) in the circle,” said Stokes. “She's been our rock all year in the circle. And then Emmery (Wilson) does a great job getting her strikes behind the plate too. Those two make a great one-two punch and pitching and catching.”