The Savannah-area high school softball season continues to highlight standout performances each week, and last week, September 2 through September 6, was no different. With the regular season in full swing, teams are leaning on experienced players to deliver in key moments. Two players who rose to the occasion were junior Makaiyah Gray of Jenkins High School and senior Jillian Austin of Savannah Christian Prep, both of whom turned in exceptional performances to lead their teams. For their efforts, Gray and Austin have been named the John Carr Real Estate Softball Players of the Week.
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Makaiyah Gray – Jenkins High School – Junior – Outfielder
Jenkins junior outfielder Makaiyah Gray was a spark plug for her team in wins over Liberty County and Islands High School. She went a perfect 5-for-5 at the plate, including a double and an RBI, while scoring twice and stealing four bases. Gray also played flawless defense in centerfield with a 1.000 fielding percentage.
Gray’s versatility and energy were on full display all week. Jenkins Head Coach Mathew Baker praised her impact on both sides of the ball.
“She has been huge for us this week. She hasn’t gotten out at all and has been a vocal leader in the dugout and on the practice field. She is lethal on the base paths with her speed, she is willing to lay down a bunt or swing away—anything it takes to help her team. She can slap from the left side if the situation calls for it, and with her speed in the outfield, she can get to almost any ball hit to center. A big-time player for us.”
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Jillian Austin – Savannah Christian Prep – Senior – Pitcher
Savannah Christian senior pitcher and four-year starter Jillian Austin led the Raiders with dominant performances on both offense and defense last week. At the plate, she went 5-for-7 (.714 average) with a triple, home run, four RBIs, and six runs scored. In the circle, Austin went 2-0 over 12 innings pitched with 26 strikeouts, just one earned run, and a .583 ERA.
Her leadership, work ethic, and consistency continue to set the tone for Savannah Christian’s season.
“Jillian is a four-year starter in the circle and the leader of our team,” said head coach Matt Oglesby. “She works harder than anyone I’ve ever coached and it shows with the results on the field.”
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Nominate a Softball Standout! The John Carr Seaport Real Estate Softball Player of the Week award accepts nominations for softball players who excel both during games and in their community activities. The John Carr Seaport Real Estate Softball Player of the Week award accepts weekly nominations from coaches, fans, and family members of players. The nomination should include statistics, along with the player's position, school information, grade level, and a coach's statement highlighting their unique qualities.
Nomination Form - John Carr Real Estate Softball Player of the Week
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Previous Winner - Click link below!
Richmond Hill’s Ragins Earns John Carr Seaport Real Estate Softball Honor
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PHOTO CREDIT: HV Jenkins High School Softball Program & Savannah Christian Atheltic Department
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