Glenns Ferry Pilots claim Idaho Class 2A softball title with 9-6 victory over Potlatch
Charlee Stewart’s complete game and strategic patience at the plate secure the title for Glenns Ferry, while Potlatch coach Dean Butterfield praises his young roster’s resilience despite the loss.
The Glenns Ferry Pilots secured the Idaho Class 2A state softball championship on May 16, defeating the top-seeded Potlatch Loggers 9-6 at the Genesee Softball Fields. Entering the tournament as the No. 3 seed, the Pilots overcame an early deficit to claim the title, finishing the season with a 21-6 record. Potlatch, who concluded their campaign with an 18-6 record, finished as runners-up for the second consecutive year.
Glenns Ferry established control early, scoring three runs in the first inning following a sequence that included two walks, a single, a double, and a wild pitch. This offensive surge forced Potlatch to replace pitcher Daycee Fry with Reese Lusby. Although Potlatch responded with two runs of their own, the Pilots maintained pressure throughout the seven-inning contest, capitalising on 13 walks issued by the Loggers.
Charlee Stewart delivered a decisive performance on the mound for Glenns Ferry, pitching a complete game. She struck out nine batters while allowing six runs, one earned, on three hits. Natalie Hernandez provided the primary offensive support, recording a game-high three runs batted in on two hits. Peyton Stewart also contributed with a double and one run batted in.
Potlatch coach Dean Butterfield emphasised the resilience of his squad, noting that the team featured only one senior, centre fielder Rylee Tucker. Despite the loss, Butterfield told his players not to be disappointed with second place, citing their ability to compete through injuries and a young roster. "They just played good ball, timely hits," Butterfield said of the Pilots. "They were patient at the plate. They took advantage of the walks, and that was just the difference in it."
The Loggers had reached the championship game by defeating host team Genesee 10-7 in the semifinals, overcoming a seven-run sixth-inning deficit from the Bulldogs. Earlier in the day, Genesee finished third after defeating Clearwater Valley of Kooskia in an elimination game. Potlatch had originally clinched their state tournament berth on May 5 with a comeback victory over Clearwater Valley of Kooskia.
