Hunched over in the outfield, 15-year-old Lindsey Cliett nervously waited to hear the umpire call the final strike on the opposing team's batter.
After the "You're out," she and her teammates on the Belvedere All-Stars celebrated their state championship for the Under 16 Division on June 16.
The 7-6 game capped a winning softball season for the local All Star.
"I just enjoy hanging out with all the different people," she said. "If you're with a team, you can just hang out and have fun.
Lindsey, who has played second base, center field and right field, has loved the game of softball since noticing a field near her house at age 4.
"When you're that age, you just want everything you see," she said.
Her skills began to take shape when her dad started teaching her to toss a ball.
The rising North Augusta High School sophomore has participated in sports only through the recreation center, choosing to pursue color guard as her main school activity.
While camaraderie with teammate keeps the game fun, Lindsey admits she can get stressed about winning -- especially winning a close game for the state championship.
"It was a stressful game and they were batting last, I just don't know how to describe it," she said. "It was euphoria when we won, though."
When not on the field for color guard or softball, Lindsey enjoys making desserts and playing volleyball.
Reach Julia Sellers at julia.sellers@northaugustatoday.com
Way to Go Lindsey!!!
We love you!!