Cheated by coronavirus, Carter seniors get parade
By all accounts, the spring 2020 season for the Carter High School Hornets’ softball and baseball teams promised to be thrilling.
The girls had a senior quartet of strong leaders – Emma Cannon, a utility player, solid at second base; Hannah Branam, probably slated for first base and signed to play at Columbia State Community College; center fielder Makinsey Russell and left fielder Alyssa Fawver.
“This was going to be a great season for us,” said Emma’s mom and CHS softball booster Suzannah Cannon. “These four started as freshmen. They’ve all lettered, and they’re just exceptional leaders in the school – good grades, National Honor Society, great team leaders. Coupled with the strong junior class, this team had great potential.”
Same with the guys.
The baseball team’s nine seniors – Adam Vaulton, catcher, pitcher, first base; Blake Shumate, second base; Hunter Willard, first base; Jagger Smith, pitcher and third base; Logan Jernigan, utility; Preston McNew, pitcher; Tyler Summers, utility; Wesley Hernandez, short stop and second base; and Christian Rice, manager – had all lettered and had played all four years.
“They’re all wonderful athletes – several of them played dual sports,” said Mindy Jernigan, Logan’s mom. “We had a new head coach this season – Chris Armstrong. We’ve done a lot of renovations to the field. Our spirits were extremely high.” The close-knit group grew up together. They were excited to play out their final season.
Of course, with the coronavirus pandemic, that season’s not happening.
“I remember sitting on the hill, watching the last game we played before spring break, when the wheels began to fall off,” Cannon said. With a winning season projected, they were eager for every opportunity to play, and were scheduled for two tournaments during the break.
But by then, rumors had started to circulate about the virus and possible cancellations. “Our coach came and told us school would be canceled and the tournaments would be, too. When I realized they may not play another game of Emma’s senior season, I was crushed for her. Then to learn that her senior year was over – it was a tough pill to swallow. That last month and a half was supposed to be the best yet.”
Families and friends decided to do something for the gifted young athletes.
On Tuesday, April 28, at CHS, they held a parade. While the senior team members stood near their respective playing fields, a fire truck, provided by proud dad and Rural Metro worker Eric Jernigan, led a group of festively decorated cars filled with loved ones and supporters who really let the kids know how much they are appreciated.
“As sad as this is, there’s a lot of sunshine in it,” said Jernigan. “It’s brought out so much of the community, so much support. They’re seeing things that wouldn’t have happened if this weren’t going on.”
“We have disappointments,” said Cannon. “This is a way to let them know that we love them and support them. Honestly, this senior class has so many great young adults, and these softball/baseball seniors are some of the top ones that deserve recognition.”