Being cut as an eighth-grade third baseman and outfielder pushed North Hall’s Megan Rogers into pitching.

"My dad and I knew North Hall would need that position filled the next year," Rogers said.

As a pitcher, Rogers made the varsity team the next year and has thrived since.

"Pitching is so much fun," Rogers said. "You’re always involved in everything on the field.

"It’s hard too, and I love a challenge."

A statement backed-up by Rogers’ performance in a 2-1 win over Lumpkin County (12-7, 5-2 Region 7-AAA) on Tuesday.

The junior set a new school record by striking out 16 batters and pitching a one-hitter against a Lady Indians’ squad that was averaging 4.4 runs per game.

All while battling a cold.

"She was behind in the count a lot," North Hall coach Roger Fannon said, "but she just kept fighting because she knew it was a big game.

"It’s the best she’s pitched."

Since 2004, Lumpkin County and North Hall (9-6, 5-3) have met eight times with the games being decided by an average of two runs.

"I wanted to play hard because of the rivalry," Rogers said. "I love pitching and it’s fun."

According to Fannon, during his tenure at North Hall he hasn’t had a pitcher like Rogers.

Using a fastball, screwball and changeup, "she throws hard," Fannon said. "She’s the first I’ve ever had to throw 60 miles per hour."

That alone, however, isn’t what makes Rogers a top-notch performer.

"Her demeanor is what makes her so good," Fannon said. "She’s very even-keeled but has an intense fire to compete.

"She can’t stand to lose or get beaten."

"I think you have to be competitive to be a pitcher," Rogers said. "You are competing with yourself, the batter and the umpire."

Rogers’ competitive drive manifests itself in other ways too.

On her team’s off days, she can be found at North Hall’s softball field with Lady Trojans’ catcher Danniele Newbern going through her pre-game warm-ups.

"Megan’s a very hard worker," Fannon said.

"I work just because I love the game," Rogers said. "I’m always wanting to be better and work everyday to be the best I can be."

Currently, North Hall is in fourth place in the Region 7A-AAA standings, a half game behind Lumpkin County and White County, and three games back of subregion leader Creekview.

The Lady Trojans play host to Gilmer at 5:55 today.

Honorable mentions

Softball

Volleyball