255 The Big 100 Hustle Up! | Head Coach Ashley Reeves coaches from the third base line during the game against Delta State on March 22. Coach Reeves celebrated her 100th win in the 2023 season. Photo courtesy of Jeff Montgomery THE BIG Head softball coach Ashley Reeves celebrates 100 wins during the 2023 season. The Harding softball team continued to win games, earn awards and make history throughout the 2023 season. Lady Bisons head coach Ashley Reeves earned her 100th career win as a head coach after the 3-0 victory against Ouachita Baptist University April 7. Reeves began her collegiate coaching career at Abilene Christian University in 2011. Before coaching in Abilene, Reeves coached the Harding Academy softball team for three seasons. Assistant coach Chris Wiman said Reeves tries to communicate self-confidence and competitiveness when coaching the Lady Bisons. “When these girls leave softball, they’re going to understand that you’ve got to compete in everything you do,” Wiman said. As Reeves and the Lady Bisons racked up wins, sophomore outfielder Macy Smith contributed to the team’s success by leading the team in batting average and sitting in second for fielding percentage. Smith said it was a special moment to be a part of Reeves’ 100th career win but expected more success to come as the season concluded. “Getting to be a part of her 100th win is a big deal,” Smith said. “We’ve broken a lot of records this year, and I think we’re looking forward to breaking a lot more.” Junior Abby Burch also made school history against Christian Brothers. Burch broke the all-time school record for career saves after recording her 23rd career save against the Buccaneers. Burch surpassed Emma Dwyer’s record of 22 saves during her four-year career as a Lady Bison. Burch loved being able to close games for the Lady Bisons and was motivated to pitch well as the season concluded. “It’s motivating me to do better and continuously get wins for my team,” Burch said. The Lady Bisons also gained attention from the Great American Conference (GAC) committee. Sophomore pitcher Riley Price was named GAC Pitcher of the Week for three consecutive weeks. Price joined the Lady Bisons in the fall after transferring from University of Texas at Tyler. Price has thrown eight complete games during her first season as a Lady Bison. Price also led the team in wins and strikeouts during the 2023 season. Written by Nic Fraraccio
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