CULLMAN, Ala. — The Cullman Lady Bearcats put together a memorable season last spring that culminated in a deep postseason run and junior Taylor Au is excited to get back on the field and see what next year’s team can do. Au feels very blessed to play with an amazing group of players in her first two years of varsity softball.
“These past two years has been amazing playing with this special group of girls. We have had a lot of talented girls come through this program and I have been blessed to play alongside them,” Au said. “One of the biggest things I have learned from the players is the important of good leadership and good relationships. Our motto for this team is ‘Love, serve, care’. This group of girls have been excellent in doing these three things. I’m looking forward to another great year next season.”
Savannah Davis, Carlie Burnham, Dayln Phillips and Faith Guest were the seniors on last year’s team and Taylor will miss their leadership on the squad this season.
“I can’t say enough good things about our four seniors from this past season. They were leaders for the team and big role models for me and my other teammates,” Au said. “They always brought their best at practice and games and set high standards for everyone else to follow. One of the things that I have learned from them is the importance of being a positive role model at all times and how much just a little encouragement can go a long way.”
Taylor has played for coach Morton her two years up on varsity so far and has learned a lot from him on and off the field.
“Coach Morton has a big heart for all of his players and he truly wants us to be successful not just on the field, but off the field as well,” Au said. “He does a good job of setting up team-building activities that helps to build strong relationships amongst the girls. He brings in a lot of speakers with inspirational stories to talk to us. He also will have us read a book together as a team and have discussions about it. He taught me that softball will not always be a part of my life and that I need to have other passions that I love just as much.”
Taylor has been really busy trying to improve her game every day and will be in a new position next year.
“I have really been focusing on my hitting mechanics and my mental approach at the plate. I would love to see my batting average go up next year,” Au said. “Coach Morton has already told me that I will be playing shortstop this season. It’s a new position for me, but I have been working on my own to get ready to move into that position this year. It will be a big change without our previous seniors, but I am confident that our players will step up and play their best where our team needs them to be. Travel ball will keep me busy all summer and fall with practices and tournaments. I will then go straight into school ball so I will be ready to get started in January.”
Taylor wants to see Cullman make that next huge step in 2023 and make it to state.
“Our team always strives to have a winning season. It’s also a big deal when we make it to regionals, but I would love it if we could make it to state next year.”
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