Bath Girls Softball Player Jailyn Ford Already Showing Great Promise

Hot Springs, VA – Of all the outstanding individual performances last year, there perhaps was none more amazing or none more spectacular than that of Bath County High School softball pitcher Jailyn Ford.

Only a sophomore, Ford dominated the mound like no one else in Virginia High School softball. Named 2010 player of the year in the Pioneer District, and a first team all-state selection, Ford compiled a 24-4 record with an ERA of .30. Ford also tied the Virginia High School League record of three consecutive no-hitters and struck out thirteen batters in a perfect postseason game against Holston. A talented hitter as well, Ford batted a phenomenal .548.

Although known undoubtedly as one of the top pitching prospects in the state, it isn’t so well known that Ford originally came to the game as a fielder.

“I started out as a shortstop,” says Ford “and kind of got tired of it and decided I wanted to try another position. That’s when I came to become a pitcher.”

On the mound, Ford’s edge over batters comes not just from her skills but also from an imposing demeanor and intensity that one isn’t likely to find a sophomore. Yet Coach Lisa Baugh explains that’s what makes her such a formidable player.

“I just think JJ’s intensity,” says Baugh, “and love of the game combined with the competitive spirit helps to make her an awesome pitcher.”

It’s a testament to her character and her immense modesty that Ford can look at these spectacular stats and contribute them more to her team’s efforts more so than her own.

“It’s not really me,” says Ford. “I have a team behind me and I just try to throw it in there and if they get a bat on it my defense will get.”

This summer hasn’t been a restful one for Ford as she’s been kept busy playing summer ball on traveling teams throughout the state such as the Virginia Renegades from Botetourt County, and the Virginia Stars from Virginia Beach. The ability to travel throughout the state has given her increased exposure and wielded her scholarships from top in-state programs.

“James Madison has offered me as well as Radford and Virginia Tech,” says Ford.

With two years left to play, and still a lot more to accomplish, look to hear about Jailyn Ford and the Bath County High School Charger’s softball team in the future.