Lakeview Centennial High School senior Bailey Wilborn is receiving praise for recently achieving a rare athletic feat. The 17-year-old softball player hit three home runs, including an acclaimed grand slam, during the JJ Pearce Varsity Tournament. Her coach confirms this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“In all of my career as a player and coach, I have never seen this done before. This is truly phenomenal,” said LCHS head softball coach Megan Roberts. “Softball players can go their entire career without hitting a grand slam. Even the umpire, who has called games for 25 years at both collegiate and high school levels, was so amazed. So amazed, he requested she sign a ball for him.”
Wilborn first impressed at the tournament’s Lakeview vs. Berkner High School game. She hit her second home run against Caddo Mills High School, and her third against Ferris High School. The performance impressed even the Lady Patriot herself.
“I was shocked. I never thought I would be able to hit three home runs in one day, much less a grand slam,” the humble player commented. “I believe by putting in extra work outside of school practice, I was able to get better at my craft at hitting.”
Despite the fact that Lakeview did not best their three opponents that day, Wilborn was still able to inspire her teammates.
“We may not be the best softball team in the district, but achievements like Bailey’s boost team morale,” Roberts stated. “The team was so excited for Bailey and her accomplishment, they did not dwell on the losses. Bailey’s accomplishment was our silver lining.”
“It felt good to get the team hopeful that we could win the game again,” Wilborn added. “We were losing at first, and I think the grand slam helped our morale.”
Although she will not focus on athletics at the University of Houston in the fall, Wilborn said this end-of-high school moment has taught her a beneficial lesson.
“By hard work and determination, I can achieve wonderful things.”
Information and photo provided by Garland ISD.