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Perry summer sports recap: Softball continues to rise

Perry Summer Sports Recap: Softball Continues to Rise, Community Teams Shine Bright

In the heart of central Iowa, the small town of Perry has once again proven that summer is more than just a season—it's a showcase of athletic grit, community spirit, and emerging talent. As the dust settles on another vibrant summer sports calendar, the Perry Bluejays and their youth counterparts have left an indelible mark on fields, diamonds, and tracks across the region. This year's recap highlights a softball program on the ascent, a resilient baseball squad, and a host of other activities that brought families together under the warm Iowa sun. From nail-biting innings to triumphant finishes, Perry's summer sports scene embodied the town's enduring passion for competition and camaraderie.

At the forefront of this summer's narrative is the Perry High School softball team, which has continued its impressive upward trajectory. Under the guidance of head coach Sarah Jenkins, who has been at the helm for five seasons, the Bluejays have transformed from underdogs into a force to be reckoned with in the Heart of Iowa Conference. This year, they posted a record that not only improved upon last season's but also secured them a spot in the regional playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade. The team's success can be attributed to a potent mix of veteran leadership and fresh talent. Senior pitcher Emily Rodriguez emerged as the team's ace, delivering strikeouts with pinpoint accuracy and a fastball that left opponents swinging at air. Her ability to mix pitches kept hitters off-balance, and she often carried the team through high-pressure situations.

Complementing Rodriguez on the mound was junior catcher Mia Thompson, whose defensive prowess and quick release thwarted base stealers time and again. Offensively, the Bluejays were led by sophomore sensation Lily Hartman, a power hitter who consistently drove in runs with her booming swings. Hartman's breakout season included several multi-hit games, including a memorable grand slam against rival Boone that sealed a crucial conference win. The team's chemistry was evident in their ability to rally from deficits, a trait Coach Jenkins attributes to off-season team-building exercises and a focus on mental toughness. "We've built a culture where every player knows their role, and they support each other like family," Jenkins said in a post-season interview. This unity paid off in the playoffs, where Perry advanced to the regional semifinals before bowing out to a top-seeded squad. While the loss stung, it fueled optimism for next year, with several key players returning.

Beyond the high school level, Perry's youth softball programs have been a breeding ground for future stars. The Perry Little League softball teams, ranging from 8U to 12U, participated in tournaments across Dallas County and beyond, fostering skills and friendships that extend far beyond the diamond. The 10U team, in particular, had a standout summer, capturing the county championship with a dramatic walk-off victory in the finals. Coaches emphasized fundamentals like fielding and base running, while also incorporating fun elements to keep young athletes engaged. Parents and volunteers played a pivotal role, organizing fundraisers and carpools that ensured every child could participate regardless of background. This grassroots effort underscores Perry's commitment to inclusive sports, helping to build a pipeline of talent that feeds into the high school program.

Shifting gears to baseball, the Perry High School boys' team navigated a challenging season marked by injuries and tough competition. Led by coach Mike Harlan, the Bluejays finished with a respectable conference standing, highlighted by a series of upsets against higher-ranked teams. Junior outfielder Jake Peterson was a standout, patrolling center field with grace and contributing offensively with timely hits. His speed on the bases often turned singles into doubles, injecting energy into the lineup. The pitching staff, anchored by senior lefty Connor Davis, provided stability, with Davis notching several complete games. Despite some mid-season slumps, the team rallied late, winning four of their last six games and earning a berth in the substate tournament. There, they fell short in a hard-fought battle, but the experience was invaluable for the underclassmen. Coach Harlan praised the team's resilience, noting how they overcame adversity, including a key player's season-ending injury, to finish strong. "This group learned what it means to grind through tough times," he reflected.

Youth baseball in Perry mirrored the high school's determination. The local Babe Ruth and Little League teams competed in regional events, with the 12U squad advancing to the state qualifiers. These young athletes honed their skills through rigorous practices and games that emphasized sportsmanship and strategy. Community events, such as the annual Perry Baseball Jamboree, brought together players of all ages for clinics and exhibition matches, strengthening bonds and passing down knowledge from older generations.

Summer sports in Perry extend beyond the diamonds, encompassing a variety of activities that keep the community active. The Perry track and field club, a summer extension of the high school program, saw athletes competing in invitational meets across Iowa. Sprinters and distance runners alike pushed their limits, with several personal bests recorded in events like the 100-meter dash and the mile. Coach Lisa Ramirez highlighted the program's focus on individual growth, incorporating cross-training with swimming sessions at the local aquatic center to build endurance and prevent injuries. The Perry Swim Team, part of the Iowa Summer League, made waves this season, quite literally. Young swimmers from elementary to high school levels participated in dual meets and championships, with the relay teams earning medals at the state finals. Standouts included freshman diver Sophia Grant, whose graceful routines impressed judges and spectators alike.

Tennis and golf also had their moments in the sun. The Perry Tennis Association hosted summer clinics and tournaments, drawing participants from neighboring towns. Doubles play was particularly popular, fostering teamwork and quick reflexes. On the links, the Perry Golf Club's junior program introduced kids to the game through lessons and mini-tournaments at the scenic Perry Country Club. These programs not only developed skills but also taught life lessons like patience and perseverance.

What ties all these sports together is the unbreakable community spirit in Perry. Local businesses sponsored teams, providing uniforms and equipment, while families packed the stands, cheering with homemade signs and post-game picnics. The Perry Parks and Recreation Department played a crucial role, maintaining facilities and organizing events that ensured safe, enjoyable experiences for all. This summer also saw initiatives to promote health and wellness, such as free sports camps for underserved youth, aimed at building confidence and reducing screen time.

Looking ahead, the momentum from this summer bodes well for Perry's athletic future. The softball program's rise signals a potential powerhouse in the making, with recruitment efforts already underway to attract more talent. Baseball aims to build on its late-season surge, and other sports continue to expand participation. As Perry residents reflect on the highlights— from clutch hits to record-breaking swims—they're reminded that sports are about more than wins and losses; they're about growth, unity, and the joy of playing under the Iowa sky.

In a town where agriculture and industry form the backbone, summer sports provide a vital outlet for expression and achievement. As one parent put it, "Watching our kids compete and succeed reminds us why we love living here." With fall sports on the horizon, Perry's athletes are already gearing up, carrying the lessons and triumphs of summer into the next chapter. This recap isn't just a look back; it's a testament to a community that plays hard, supports fiercely, and dreams big. (Word count: 1,128)

Read the Full Des Moines Register Article at:
[ https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/local/perry/2025/07/23/perry-summer-sports-recap-softball-continues-to-rise/85337421007/ ]