Ballard Bruins Fastpitch : Ballard History/Records

Fastpitch Softball was started at Ballard High School in 1995. As with many new programs, there were challenges. From 1995-1998, the program went through two Head Coaching changes. The original softball field was built over the old band practice site. Located at the bottom of a small hill, the softball field was often flooded after any size rain, making it difficult to practice or play games. There were no lights for late games or practices. 

In 1999, Coach Alan Jones took over the program. It was only 1 year later, in 2000, when the "Ballard Bruins Softball Field of Dreams" was completed and ready for play. Since Coach Jones took over, the Lady Bruins overall record of 256 wins and 78 losses is ONLY ONE of the many accomplishments and changes he has brought to the program.

In his 10 years at Ballard, Alan has worked hard to make sure that the Lady Bruins have the BEST of everything! The Lady Bruins have the best facilities in the state, top-notch equipment, a well trained and experienced Coaching Staff, and OPPURTUNITY!!! They have the opportunity to compete and win the State Championship……..and 2009 is our year to take it ALL!

In 2001, The Lady Bruins won their first District Title.

In 2002, The Lady Bruins won another District Title.

In 2003, District Champs!

In 2004, The Lady Bruins are District Champs!! (4 years in a row)

In 2005, The Lady Bruins won the District Title. 

In 2005, They went on to win the Regionals!!

In 2005, The Lady Bruins took a trip to the State Championship and came home with the 2005 State Championship Runner-Up !!!!!

In 2006, District Champs!

In 2007, District Champs

In 2007, Runner-Up at Regionals

In 2008, The Lady Bruins won the Dsitrict Title!

In 2008, They went on to win the Regional

In 2008, The Lady Bruins took another trip to the State Championship. After winning the first round, the Bruins had to face Ryle. After a record breaking 11 innings!!!! The Lady Bruins Lost 2-1........With no time allowed to recover from the long-record breaking game, The Lady Bruins had to take the field against Christain Co. They came up short of the win.

Just take a look at some of the improvements to the program since 1999:

·         2005 New Indoor Practice/Training Facility

·         Softball Stadium Lighting

·         New Stadium Sound System

·         New Digital Score Board

·         2004 Ballard Softball Field Dedication in Honor of Ron Jones

·         Temperature controlled, raised Press Box directly behind home plate

·         Concession stand built on lower level of Press Box

·         Lady Bruins Locker Room, conveniently located on lower level of Press Box

·         New Fencing around entire field

·         Vinyl Coated wide-screening around entire fence

·         Poly-Cap installed over the fence for safety, reduces player injuries. Increases visibility. Beautifies the field.

·         Outfield distance markers

·         Use of Soil Master on the infield. “Soil Master contains very little dust per bag and is easier on skin and uniforms because it has been tumbled to reduce sharp edges. It is not abrasive like stone or shale products. Resistance to breakdown keeps it working year after year. The natural wicking ability promotes superior water drainage. Soil Master improves soil structure and prevents excessive compaction. After a rain, play ball quicker and with less effort. Soil Master eliminates puddles and slick spots yet at the same time, it will allow your field to retain moisture to help keep playing surfaces virtually dust free.”

·         Installation of irrigation system

·         Installation of Heavy Duty Double “above ground” foul poles

National Rankings  USA Today____24th____________ year_ 2005__________

Coach of the Year________2005______________

___42__ players chosen to play in the High School All Star contest.

___7_____ players have signed college softball scholarships. Since 2002 an average of 3 seniors had scholarships offers for the next level either Div 1, Div11, Div 111 or NAIA.