Wednesday, May 26, 2004

Starr’s Mill to face Parkview on road in Elite 8

By MICHAEL BOYLAN
mboylan@TheCitizenNews.com

The Starr’s Mill Panthers have been hitting up a storm since the state playoffs began. They have scored 41 runs in four games and have allowed six runs, five of which came in one game against Valdosta. Today, they travel to Parkview High School to take on those Panthers for a chance to advance to the state semifinals.

Parkview (23-8) has had similar success in the playoffs, though they have one loss, to Wheeler in the second part of a doubleheader last week, 9-6. In their wins, they have outscored their opponents 45-13.

Five of Parkview’s eight losses came before the end of March; two were in the Georgia Dugout Tournament and two were to teams from Florida. They also lost to Fayette County High 18-11 March 29. Their last loss before the playoffs was a 6-3 loss to Shiloh on April 14. They went on to win 12 in a row.

Starr’s Mill (25-5) has won nine in a row. Their last loss came April 21 to Newnan, 14-0. Since then they have outscored their opponents 85-15. The Panthers have received great pitching performances and solid hitting throughout their lineup. The team has been very loose, playing seven of their final nine games in front of friendly home crowds, but as they head deeper in the playoffs, the pressure will mount.

To get to Parkview High School, proceed north on I-85 to Exit 101 (Indian Trail Road). Turn right (south) and note that Shoney’s will be about .2 mile on the right.Ê Continue on Indian Trail about 3 miles and cross US-29. The road name changes to Killian Hill. Proceed another 1.5 miles to the first traffic light. Turn right on Arcado Road and proceed about .8 of a mile to the next traffic light. Turn left on Cole Road (note that the road on your right is named Camp Creek). Proceed about one mile and Parkview High School is on the left.