The North Atlanta Varsity Softball Team has capitalized on its talented roster once again, achieving a season that will go down in NAHS history. Surpassing their outstanding performance from the previous year, the team secured their fourth consecutive Region 4 6A championship, cementing their status as an unstoppable force in their division. With a school record-breaking number of wins with a 25-8 season (13-1 in region play), compared to their already impressive 23-8 record the year before, these athletes have left an indelible mark on their school’s legacy.
Throughout this incredible season, the team showcased remarkable talent. Two players, senior Sarah Stosteen and junior Charlotte Smith, committed to continue their softball journeys at Sewanee and Georgia Tech, respectively. Additionally, senior Leela Langston, already a College of Charleston commit, shattered records by achieving 200 career hits (the most in Georgia history), solidifying her place in Georgia’s all-time softball greats. “The past 4 years have been an unforgettable journey,” said Langston, “I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the players who get to continue with the team next year.”
The team owes a great deal of its success to the exceptional coaching duo of Head Coach Ricky Plante and Assistant Coach Will Leonard. These coaches go the extra mile, dedicating their time and expertise to not just softball but also flag football and baseball. Coach Plante reached a significant milestone this season, celebrating his 100th win as head coach during a victorious game against Chapel Hill on October 4th, 2023. “This is a special group of young ladies. As much as I look forward to next year right now, it is going to be tough to reach or even surpass the accomplishments that this year’s team achieved,” said Plante. “As far as the 100th win, it is a testament to the players and coaches that I have been surrounded by. I consider it a program achievement, not a personal achievement.”
As the team pushed the boundaries of excellence, they embarked on a remarkable journey toward the state championship, advancing further than ever before. Their spirit was put to the test, ultimately leading them to a bittersweet second-round playoff defeat against Alcovey. For the seniors on the team, it marked the end of a historic chapter in their athletic careers. While they celebrated their 4 years of commitment and triumph, there was an undeniable sense of nostalgia as they donned their dubs jerseys for the final time. “This season has been a rollercoaster of emotions, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved,” said senior Taylor Ryan. “It’s hard to say goodbye to the Warriors, but I’ll forever cherish the memories forever.”
As the North Atlanta Varsity Softball Team bids farewell to this remarkable season, they look ahead to new challenges and triumphs. The departing seniors leave behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of athletes at NAHS, and their memories will be cherished forever. Go Dubs!
