Softball Signings At Toombs County

Last Friday at Toombs County High School, two standout softball players signed their letters of intent to play softball in college. Shay Stringer and Nora Grace Mercer will be moving on to the next level. Stringer will be heading to play for the Eagles of Georgia Southern University and Mercer will be playing for the Eagles at Tallahassee State.

They have been part of the record setting teams over the past four years, including this year's team that came away as State Runner-up. They have helped to rebuild the program, change the atmosphere and help start something special at Toombs County.

Shay Stringer

Stringer has set about every pitcher record there is at TCHS. She is the single season strikeout leader with 274, the career strikeout leader with 620. She had 47 wins in her career here with 19 of them coming this season. This season she threw 1 perfect game, 4 no hitters, and 9 shutouts.

Stringer said, “I am heading to Georgia Southern mainly because of the staff. All of the coaches just were so great, and I really connected with them. I am looking forward to some good competition there as well. I also like that it is close to home and that I can come back whenever I want. I of course have to thank my parents for all they have done for me over the years. All of my coaches who have put so much into me, all of my teammates, friends, and family that have been there for me and pushed me.”

Head Coach Hayne Brant said, “Shay holds a lot of records for us here in the circle. Career and single season strikeouts, wins, she was just a force for us in the circle. She is going to do big things at Georgia Southern, and we are happy that we are going to be able to head over to Statesboro and watch her.”

Nora Grace Mercer

Mercer holds the record at TCHS for hits in a career with 128. She was a four year starter for the Lady Bulldogs and has been a big part of the record setting team.

Mercer stated, “ When I went on my visit I really just felt at home. The coaches were great, everyone I met there, it just felt like I fit. I really want to thank my parents for all they have done for me. I also want to thank all of my coaches and teammates over the years for pushing me and just for enjoying our time together.”

Head Coach Hayne Brant added, “To have both of these girls sign today is great. Nora Grace was a four-year starter for us and is the career hits leader here at Toombs County. I am so happy to see her move on, and I know she is going to have a lot of success. She was a great leader for us on and off the field so we are going to really miss her.'

(L to R,Front): TJ Mercer (father),Holden Mercer (brother), Nora Grace Mercer,Courtney Palma (mother); (Back): Head Coach Hayne Brant, Coach Mackenzie Tripp, and Coach Dirk Brantley.Photo by Mike Branch