North softball is in a fight with Highland for the league title but what hasn't been a fight is the title of best hitter in league.

 

This year the Stars have been hard-hitting but in a season of injuries, 16 year coach Corrie Ganoway has been most pleased with versatility. "It's very exciting and it gives us a lot of options," said Ganoway who's team is 14-11 (7-2 SEYL). 

 

Senior second baseman Brittney Howard has been able to step up when others have gone down playing at times out of position at shortstop and centerfield. "She's definitely been very beneficial to our program," said Ganoway.

 

She's having a senior year to remember. "I go out there like it's my last cause it pretty much is for my last year of high school," said Howard. 

 

This season she's leading the SEYL with the highest batting average (.578), slugging percentage (1.072), home runs (3), runs (47) and on base percentage (.639). "I've had so much confidence in me I feel more comfortable," she said.

 

While Howard's always been a good hitter, she says she's having a break out this season thanks to that confidence. "Honestly I feel so relaxed at the plate. I don't have any nervousness in me," she said. "I feel like I could get up there and just put it in play."

 

While North lost to Highland Wednesday to relinquish first place in league, the Stars confidence isn't shaken knowing it's just one game and that their biggest test awaits them at the end of the season. "Coach had faith in me to where if I made a mistake she didn't pull me out she told me you got it, stay down. Just confidence in yourself," said Howard.

 

North host Highland Friday at 4:00 P.M. 

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