PJL 8U Darlings take the Peach, seek Dixie Youth World Series title

PERRY, Ga. — The Perry Junior League (PJL) has continuously developed local athletes into fan favorites throughout the years. A huge part of that is critiquing their athletic abilities at a young age.

In 2022, the PJL has also sent numerous All-Star teams to state tournaments, where some finished top 3. Unsurprisingly, several PJL All-Star teams will represent the Peach State in national tournaments after winning their respective Georgia Dixie Youth State tournament. One of those teams is the Darlings, who compete within the 8U age bracket.

The developmental coaches of the Darlings include Marissa Ellis, Shawn Pearce and Kent Young. Ellis, Pearce and Young are anticipating the World Series but cherish the honor and privilege to impact the youth.

Darling manager Jeff Whitaker believed their dedication speaks for itself.

“Our players are super excited,” Whitaker said. “They have already practiced close to 30 times since the middle of May and are eager to get back after it this week to prepare for the World Series.

“These girls are special. They have improved tremendously over the past month or so. They work so hard and never complain about the heat.”

Many of the Darlings’ team, parents and coaches had the privilege of representing Georgia in the 6U Dixie Youth World Series in 2021.

“That team was the first team from Perry to win a state title in the 6U division to advance to the World Series,” he said. “This current team is the first girls’ team from Perry to win a state title and advance to represent Georgia in the 8U Dixie Youth World Series.”

PJL participation numbers are growing, which could have a lot to do with the success and talent being produced in Houston County. Building chemistry among teammates is a valuable trait in sports at every level.

“These girls and the girls from last year’s 6U team have really raised the bar and the expectations for the softball side of PJL,” the manager said. “I believe that this group of girls, along with some others that are a year, two years or younger, will bring Perry High a state championship one day.”

The Darlings will compete in the Dixie Youth World Series on July 29, and Bleckley County will play host.

“To be the state champions is huge,” Whitaker said. “It’s really an honor to represent the state of Georgia in the Dixie Youth World Series. We get to stay in state this year and are super excited to pack the park in Cochran as we chase our World Series title. These girls are ready to get back to work and have pure joy, excitement and anticipation for what’s next.”

The members of the PJL 8U Darlings are Landry Cook, Ariah Crowe, Audrey Ellis, Annie Gainous, Anna Gentry, Bailey Gilbert, Lila Grahl, Addison Pearce, Averie Pearce, Ella Walters, Liza Whitaker and Elizabeth Young.

Darlings manager Jeff Whitaker leaves the following message: “I would like to personally thank my assistant coaches, Kent Young, Shawn Pearce and Marissa Ellis. They work extremely hard to develop skills and character in these young ladies. Also, I am extremely grateful for the PJL board, especially Billy Warren and Amy Dixon, for their continued support and the advances that are being made in the softball side of PJL. Also, I would like to give a huge shout-out to all of the PJL boys and girls teams that have already earned their spot in their respective World Series.”

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