Cathedral's Junior Closer Secures Semistate Berth: "We Fully Trust Shelby"

INDIANAPOLIS — Shelby Johnson's pivotal moment this season occurred in late April when she pitched her first complete game, delivering a shutout against the formidable Noblesville team. The junior showcased her skills by allowing only five hits, striking out two batters, and walking one. "That game really helped me a lot, because I knew they were big hitters and I had to show (up)," Johnson reflected. "That really helped my confidence. I've been better since then."

Throughout the last two seasons, Johnson primarily served as a backup to senior Sidney Feczko, stepping in during less challenging matchups. However, this season, she has evolved into a key player, often sharing the mound with Feczko and stepping up as the team's main reliever. With a record of 9-0, six saves, and a 1.72 ERA over 53 innings heading into the regional championship, Johnson's contributions have been significant. "We fully trust in Shelby," said sophomore shortstop Jordyn Hazelwood. "She came in and completely dominated some good teams like Noblesville," she added, noting Johnson's ability to induce weak hits and ground balls.

Coach Tony Matthew's strategy has been effective, and during a tense moment in the sixth inning, he turned to Johnson when Danville began to close the gap in a 7-5 game. After allowing an RBI single to the first hitter she faced, Johnson swiftly retired the next five batters, securing the victory for Cathedral and their advancement to the semistate. "I can definitely say I was nervous, but I know that my team has a lot of confidence in me and I have a lot of confidence," Johnson admitted. "I knew I just had to get the job done so we could go on to semistate Saturday."

Feczko started strong, holding a no-hitter until the fifth inning, ultimately allowing five unearned runs while striking out seven in 5.1 innings. Despite a challenging sixth inning marked by errors and a series of hits from Danville, the Irish held their lead. "We made a few throwing errors and a little trouble with the bunt, so you know we'll be working on that," Matthews noted, appreciating the team's overall performance against a tough opponent.

Now, as the defending champions, Cathedral prepares for their next challenge in Jasper, where they will face No. 14 Evansville Memorial in the semistate semifinal. Johnson expressed confidence in the team's abilities, stating, "I don't think there's pressure. We've shown that we can do it." Hazelwood echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their team's readiness to tackle any challenges ahead.

In addition to the game, Cathedral held a ceremony honoring longtime assistant coach Linda Bamrick, who is retiring after 40 years with the school. Her contributions to the program have been invaluable, leading the girls' basketball team to multiple state titles and guiding the softball team to its first championship last season.