CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Following their state championship win last week, the St. Bethlehem 12U softball team were sent off in style as they make their way to the regional tournament, where they will need three wins to capture the regional championship title and clinch their spot in the Little League Softball World Series.
With their anticipated regional appearance, this will be the furthest a St. Bethlehem softball team has made it into postseason play in over two and a half decades. For St. Bethlehem president Ashley Kiesel, this is a dream come true.
“Coming into this year, I knew it was going to be special because it marked our 50th anniversary,” Kiesel said. “Before the season started, I said big things were coming from our major’s division. I’ve been at St. B since most of these players were in t-ball and pee wee. Even back then, I could see their grit and determination would lead them to great achievements. It’s been 25 years since we sent a little league softball division team this far. It’s a true accomplishment and something these girls need to be proud of.”
As for the players, all of them have dreamed of playing at this level since they picked up a softball. Clarksville Now spoke to a few players to get a feel for the level of excitement going into the regional tournament.
“Ever since I started playing softball 4 years ago, it’s been a dream to play on tv and to make it to the Little League World Series!” said Amelia Eszlinger. “When I found out St. B Little League 12u hasn’t brought home the state championship since 1999, it made me want to work even harder. The best thing is I get to go on this journey with my dad who is one of the coaches. I couldn’t have done this without all of the amazing girls on this team.”
As for Olivia Quick, she said she is excited to have the opportunity represent St Bethlehem Little League and the state of Tennessee in the Southeast Regional Tournament. “There is nothing better than playing softball with my best friends and working toward the same goal,” Quick said.
What’s next
The St. Bethlehem softball team will play their first regional game on Monday, July 22, at 11 a.m. Eastern time. The game will be aired on ESPN+.
Leading them into the game will be head coach Travis Gillette, who is also the head coach for the Rossview High softball team. This team has already made history, but as far as their concerned, they’re far from done.
“The ability to share this once in a lifetime opportunity with these young ladies and families is breathtaking,” Gillette said. “I feel like we fell out of the lucky tree and hit every branch on the way down, ended up in a pool of cash and Sour Patch Kids. We will represent St. B, Clarksville and the state of Tennessee with honor at the next level. All glory to God.”