SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT
SOFTBALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR

CONSTANCE ORR

Many area softball players were hoping this would be a down year for Butler High School since they lost All-American pitcher Ashton Ward to The University of Tennessee.  Butler has had their way the last few seasons; maybe this year would be different.  Those false hopes were dashed by the “next great Butler pitcher,” Constance Orr.

The daughter of Rodney and Helen Orr has recorded a phenomenal season for Butler High School.  Through May 21st, the University of North Carolina softball signee has yet to allow an earned run.  An amazing stat for any softball pitcher, especially one that’s only 16 years old and a high school senior.  In addition to her pitching, Constance has also come up big at the plate, with hit after hit for the Bulldogs.

Constance waited patiently the last few years as Ashton Ward led the Bulldogs to consecutive state championships. After recovering from a hip injury, Constance returned mid season last year to help her team from the first base position.  With Ashton gone, Constance became the leader of the Bulldogs.  With their win over Central Cabarrus, Butler moved to an incredible 25-0 record.  Constance gave one of her best performances ever in that game, tossing 20 strikeouts in an 8 inning game.  She also delivered the two RBI’s to win the game 2-0.

This softball all-star always seems to have a smile on her face while on the diamond, but rest assured, she wants to win more than anyone.  Whatever it takes, Constance has delivered all season for first year head coach Brian Cottom.

“Constance is a special player,” said Coach Cottom. “She can do it all on the field.  Constance has a powerful arm and a powerful bat.  She is who you want on the mound or at the plate in big games with runners in scoring position.”

For the high school season, Constance has recorded four no hitters and is closing in on 20 wins for the season.   Her strikeout total has passed 200 and she is hitting at nearly a .400 average.  Need a slap single; she can give it to you, a stand-up double?  No problem.   Constance was also named Southwestern 4A Conference Tournament MVP and is a lock to win the MVP award for the regular season as well.

These awards come on top of her selection as the Greater Charlotte Hot Stove League Softball Player of the Year in January.   Constance has won nearly every award there is to win in softball in the last six months and we can see the awards continuing in college for this kind-hearted young softball player.  Her determination and dedication to being the best possible player makes Constance the type of student-athlete you want to cheer for.

In this area where highly talented softball players fill spots on nearly every high school roster,  one player, Constance Orr, stands above the rest with her 2008 high school season.  The South Charlotte Sports Report salutes Constance Orr for being named the 2008 High School Softball Player of the Year.