Commerce Police Chief John W. Gaissert pitched a devotional message to the Lady Tigers’ fast-pitch team on Monday. And his timing couldn’t be better.
While coach Pam Canup said Gaissert’s visit was planned as part of an annual speaker program she carries into each season, there’s no doubt the team needs a lift right now.
“It’s a very important week,” Canup said.
The Tigers are scheduled to meet two Region 8-A foes this week, including Prince Avenue Christian on Tuesday and Social Circle on Thursday.
Currently, the Commerce team is winless in the regular season, not including tournament victories.
Troubled fourth and fifth innings of the Tigers’ most recent game against Hebron Christian Academy last Tuesday speak to the local team’s biggest problems — offense.
Despite runners in scoring position, and at least one bases loaded opportunity, the bats did not produce. Hebron won 6-0.
Commerce’s Kaylee Partin (2-3), Bridget Barnett (1-3) and Hannah Crumley (2 sac bunts) performed best at the plate, the coach reported.
“We couldn’t score,” Canup said.
Practice Monday opened with Gaissert’s visit. His message was both faith-based and personal in nature. He spoke about his own participation in sports as well as his attraction to Commerce, because of its emphasis on community.
“He said, ‘You can’t get down, you have to strengthen each other,’ ” Canup said.
