Edmonson Voice Report: 
The ECHS Lady Cat Golf team competed in the regional tournament yesterday at Indian Hills Country Club in Bowling Green. Senior Paige Wolfe finished 7th in the tournament with a score of 86, qualifying her for the upcoming KHSAA state competition. 

"These girls faced never-before-experienced challenges and did a great job taking them on head first," said Coach Kayla Meredith. "We have had a great season and I couldn’t have asked for a better result out this amazing group of girls. I’m incredibly proud to get to work with each one of them and it encourages me for the future seeing how hard they have worked this season."

Meredith also added, "It’s so exciting to get to return to the state tournament, as a coach this time, and to support such a remarkable young lady."

She also wanted to thank all of the players and their parents for all of their support this season. 

Edmonson Voice Sports: 
Hope Sivori, sophomore member of the WKU women's basketball team and 2021 C-USA Co-Freshman of the year, paid a visit to the Lady Cat basketball team at their practice on Thursday. She watched their practiced and spoke to them about working toward their goals, how to be a good teammate, and to "never give up", according to Lady Cat Head Coach Bart Weaver. 

Weaver said he was very pleased with Hope's visit.

"Hope was truly an inspiration, and her positivity filled the locker room," he said. "Thanks to Melinda Campbell for introducing Hope to our team.”

Weaver also said Hope shared with the girls her go-to quote, which is "earned not given", and told them the quote doesn't just apply to basketball, but life itself. 

Hope said, "The girls were wonderful and super easy to talk to. The coaching staff is amazing. I’m so excited and blessed to have the opportunity to talk to such an amazing group of young ladies. Go, Lady Cats!” ​

Edmonson Voice Sports:
The ECHS Golf Team wrapped up regular season play last week.

On Tuesday, all the boys traveled to Hart County and lost a close match 188 to 178.  The Wildcats ended the season with a record of 2 - 4 and now they will send the Top 5 boys to the Region at Rolling Hills on Tuesday. The top 5 consists of:
Andrew Talley Tee Time 8:40
Jacob Williams Tee Time 8:30
Jarrett Prunty Tee Time 8:20
Levi Meredith Tee Time 8:10
Evan Stice Tee Time 8:00

Then on Thursday the Lady Cats hosted South Warren on Senior Night.  Before the match both teams took team pictures and honored the 5 seniors: Zach Jacobs, Jarrett Prunty, and Evan Stice for the boys teams. 

Lady Cat seniors Paige Wolfe and Hallie Cassady were honored and were also allowed a caddie for the event.  Paige Wolfe had her dad David Wolfe as her caddie while Hallie Cassady had her dad Kyle Cassady as her caddie.  This proved to be a great time for both the players, parents and spectators.  Coach Kayla also picked up her first win of the year. 
 
"I wanted to do something special for these girls," Coach Kayla said. "They have worked so hard all year long and I wanted to give them a treat for their efforts."

The Lady Cats also will be sending their top 5 to the regional tournament on Monday at Indian Hills, which will consist of:

Paige Wolfe Tee Time 9:30
Hallie Cassady Tee Time 9:20
MaKayla Hogg Tee Time 9:10
Hannah Cassady Tee Time 9:00
Abby Hogg Tee Time 8:50

The coaches wished to thank everyone who has supported the Golf Team this year. 

"Each player, parent, spectator, and especially Shady Hollow staff for allowing us to play," said the coaching staff.  

Darren Doyle, story: Madison Doyle, photos:
The Lady Cats had much to celebrate on Thursday's win over Butler County at the annual ECHS Dig Pink Cancer Benefit Game. Not only did they defeat their District 12 opponent in four sets 3-1, (25-14, 24-26, 25-22, 25-16), but they also saw two records broken--one for the amount of money raised at the event (nearly $6K,) and two, the single-game record for number of kills. Junior Kaylee Lindsey earned her 18th kill on the final point of the last set, which put her at the top of the list.

Each year, Lady Cat Volleyball chooses one local family that is either battling cancer or has been recently largely affected by cancer for whom to raise funds. This year's recipient was the family of Leslie Minyard, who is now battling stage 3 Lymphoma and is currently undergoing two different types of chemotherapy.

Leslie was unable to attend the game, but her husband, Richie, was full of gratefulness on her behalf.

Also honored was 15-year old Mya Henderson, who's Leukemia has been in remission after a battle with the disease as an infant. She was named Honorary Coach and had her own place on the Lady Cat bench throughout the night.

The Lady Cats were pumped and ready to go in the first set, jumping out to a comfortable lead and taking care of business early with a 25-14 win.

Butler County bounced back in set two as they began to settle in to the high-energy atmosphere at ECHS. They were able to edge the Lady Cats 26-24. Set three was also a nail-biter as each team traded licks throughout the set; however, Edmonson County was able to hold off a late run by the Lady Bears and took the set 25-22.

Both teams began set four closely but a big run mid-set gave the Lady Cats a comfortable lead, capped off with Kaylee Lindsey's kill for the final point.

Sophomore Riley Monroe not only made her varsity debut, but she also started tonight in place of junior Rylee Laster, who was out for illness. Monroe contributed to the team's win.

In addition to Lindsey's kills, Whitney Davis had 7, Alyssa Doyle had 6, and Monroe added 3. Raven Cast led Edmonson County in assists with 16 while Madison Bullock added 13. Davis also notched 38 digs while Cast had 23, Doyle had 20, and Lindsey had 12. Davis also added 3 service aces while Doyle and Cast added 2 each and Monroe added one.

Edmonson County is now 3-1 in district play and 6-13 on the season. They are scheduled to play 6 games on Saturday in the Slam Jam Tournament at Metcalfe County on Saturday.

Edmonson Voice Sports: Alyssa Doyle, photos (courtesy of ECHS Yearbook)
It was another memorable evening for Edmonson County High School as the Lady Cat Soccer Team took the field for the first time in school history on Friday, September 17, 2021 at Grayson County High School for a JV and freshman match against the Lady Cougars.

While the JV team lost 7-0 and the freshmen fell 4-0, Coach Greg Hudson discussed the great effort from his teams as well as the the process of starting a team from scratch.

"Each team gave a great effort in defeat against a more-seasoned Grayson County squad," he said "As a coach, I was extremely proud of the way both teams played and the sportsmanship displayed for the opposing team and officials. We are off to a great start at building a great soccer program at Edmonson County High School."

Coach Hudson encouraged everyone to support the team.

"Check out our schedule and come out to watch us play."

The remaining schedule for ECHS soccer is as follows:

• BOYS JV @ Hart County Wednesday, 22 September 2021. Game time 5:30pm
• GIRLS JV @ Hart County Wednesday, 22 September 2021. Game time 7:00pm
• BOYS JV @ Barren County Thursday, 23 September 2021. Game time 5:30pm
• GIRLS JV vs Allen County Monday, 27 September 2021. Game time 4:30pm at Chalybeate Park
• GIRLS Freshman vs Allen County Monday, 27 September 2021. Game time 5:45pm at Chalybeate Park
• BOYS JV @ Grayson County Thursday, 30 September 2021. Game time 5:30pm
• BOYS Freshman @ Grayson County Thursday, 30 September 2021. Game time 7:00pm
  

Zander Bass connected for the Wildcats with 9:02 left in the third quarter on a 31-yard touchdown run on a reverse. The Cats were not able to score on the two-point conversion attempt but tied the score 14-14.

Caverna's Buchanon picked off Alexander's pass meant for a Wildcat receiver with 2:45 left in the third. He ran the ball back for a 61-yard pick six. The Colonels couldn't convert the extra two but took a 20-14 lead.

With 8:55 left in the game, the Colonels bobbled a punt attempt by Buchanon, but he somehow recovered and ran the ball for a 75-yard gain. On the next play, Edwards scored for the Colonels on a 25-yard touchdown run. They did not gain the extra two again but extended their lead to 28-14 with 8:10 left in the game.

After a scuffle at the end of a play, Caverna's Chase Ragland appeared to throw the football at a Wildcat player and was called for a personal foul and ejection with 6:55 left in the game.

With 4:48 left, it would be an Edmonson County halfback pass from Michael Mills after a pitch from Alexander to Garrett Lyons for a 61-yard gain. The Wildcats were able score another touchdown and cut the Caverna lead to 28-20 with 1:45 to go.

After a Caverna turnover on the next possession, the Wildcat pass was intercepted by the Colonels with only seconds left which snuffed out the chance for a comeback.

Head Coach Ed Smart said he was proud of the kids for not giving up.

"At the end, they got two scores, but we kept fighting," he said. "I thought they played hard. The truth is, some of our younger kids, it's growing pains, and it showed up a little bit tonight. "

He then discussed some of the penalties that hurt the team tonight.

"We're gonna make mistakes," he said. "We're gonna drop balls, we'll miss a block. All that is human, physical stuff. It's the mental stuff that really frustrates me."

Edmonson County is now 0-5 on the season and will head to Metcalfe County next Friday for a district match up.

Darren Doyle, story: Madison Doyle, photos:
It's been a long time coming, but Edmonson County Volleyball is finally winning some district games; last night's win came against Grayson County in a full, 5-set match at ECHS on Tuesday night. It was only the second District 12 victory since the 2017 season when the Lady Cats won the district championship.

The team lost 12 players after the '17 season and has been in a rebuilding mode ever since. With a young team (only four seniors combined over the past two seasons) and two different coaches during that time, the growing pains have been difficult with three straight losing seasons. While the Lady Cat record isn't stellar so far this season (5-11 with one loss coming from a COVID cancellation forfeiture), Coach Bridget Simon said earlier in the season that this year's team is showing much better team chemistry, communication, and relationships on and off the court.

Some would argue that teams over the past three seasons were mainly taking the floor with an attitude of trying not to lose, while this year's squad seems to play with nothing to lose. With three straight losing seasons and no wins in the district (until this season), there's not much else TO lose.

Set one began roughly for the Lady Cats as Grayson County took an 8-2 lead, which forced Edmonson County to take a timeout. Edmonson scrapped back and cut the lead to 12-10 but Grayson forced Edmonson into their second timeout with a Lady Cougar lead of 21-16.

The Lady Cats gained some momentum with a small run of their own and cut the Lady Cougar lead to 22-20, which led to a Grayson County timeout. Edmonson County scored twice right out of the timeout and tied the score at 22. Each team traded blows, tied it again at 24, but Grayson outlasted the Lady Cats 26-24 for a 1-0 lead.

The Lady Cats took early control of set two and never looked back. They jumped out to an 11-4 lead which prompted a timeout for Grayson County. The Lady Cats scored out of the timeout but Grayson County put together a 7-2 run that ran the Lady Cats into their first timeout. After another short run by Edmonson County, Grayson called their final timeout with EC leading 18-12. From that point, Edmonson outscored Grayson 7-4 to take the set 25-16, tying the game at 1-1.

The Lady Cats looked even sharper in the third set as they ran out to a 14-6 lead. Grayson County wasn't able to recover from their poor start as Edmonson led as much as 10 points during the set. They went on to win set three 25-15 and take a 2-1 game lead.

The Lady Cougars were far from folding up and heading back to Leitchfield and came out with more intensity in set 4. After four different ties, Grayson County took a 14-11 lead, which forced EC into their first timeout. A 7-2 Lady Cougar run extended their lead to 21-14 and Edmonson called their final timeout on the ropes, trailing 24-17. Grayson County scored the final point of the set (25-17) to tie the game at 2-2, forcing a final set to 15.

While the score was tied four different times, Edmonson County never trailed in the final set, winning 15-11 and the game 3-2.

Edmonson County is scheduled to take on Trinity, (14-4, 2-0) another district opponent, on Thursday in Whitesville. The Lady Cats are also currently 2-0 in district play, Grayson is 0-2, and Butler County is 0-2.

Edmonson Voice Sports:
The growing pains of a young team along with recent COVID restrictions have somewhat hindered Wildcat Football, but a solid second half against Hancock County last night in Brownsville brought some positivity to an otherwise 37-8 lopsided loss to the 4-0 Hancock County Hornets.

The Hornets wasted no time in their attack, scoring on a 61-yard touchdown run by Logan Willis on the first play of the game. Their two-point conversion gave them an 8-0 lead over the Cats only 16 seconds into the game.

On the Hornets' next possession, it would be Willis again, scoring on a 20-yard TD run. Another two-point conversion gave Hancock a 16-0 lead with 10 minutes left in the first.

Willis would score twice more before the break, and an interception and touchdown with just over two minutes to go in the half extended Hancock County's lead to 37-0 at the half.

With a running clock, the Cats came out aggressively on defense and did a much better job in the third, while many teams would've already given up. Not many teams bounce back from a 37-defecit at the half, and with only 6 yards of total offense during the first half, Edmonson County was able to hold the Hornets scoreless in the second half.

Zander Bass led Edmonson County with 53 rushing yards while Michael Mills added 53 rushing yards and scored the first touchdown for the Cats this season. Mills was also able to convert the two-point conversion to get 8 points on the board for the Cats.

On defense, Logan Davis led the Cats with 9 tackles while Daren Alexander and Caden Swihart both recorded sacks for EC.

Edmonson County had not played in two weeks prior to last night due to quarantines and school closures.

They are now 0-4 on the season and are scheduled to travel to Caverna next Friday at 7pm.

​Joseph Barkoff, story and photos for the Edmonson Voice:
​Edmonson County High School boys’ soccer took the field for their first, and Edmonson County Schools’ first time ever, against a seasoned Barren County HS at the Glasgow Soccer complex Friday Sept. 10 in Glasgow.
 
Edmonson is a program in its infancy and the two teams were both junior varsity, but you have to start somewhere.
 
The school board just passed the order to begin soccer this past summer, Edmonson County HS athletic director Brad Johnson said.
 
“We passed it this summer,” Johnson said. “It took a couple of readings from the board to get soccer started and when we finally got the go-ahead to go, we started reaching out to local schools and scheduling JV games.”
 
Edmonson County HS will begin with play in a JV schedule against other schools’ JV squads, Johnson said.
 
“We gotta walk before we can run,” Johnson said. “We are kinda in the early stages of it, but, they’ve been playing league soccer on their own at Chalybeate and we feel like we’ve got some interest, some momentum going, and everybody’s anxious to see what it’s gonna look like.”
 
Johnson said when you drive by folks in neighborhoods, you tend to see more basketball hoops and kids throwing footballs than soccer balls being kicked around in yards. While it feels like it is in its infancy in the area, it has seeped into the culture and he notes the kids who play really seem to enjoy it.
 
Nationwide, Johnson thinks soccer has become more popular in recent years, contributing to the high numbers of new student players, he said.
 
“We have good numbers in boys and girls, and are tickled to death to have both.”

​

​

​Soccer in Edmonson County has been growing in popularity since the introduction of youth soccer over six years ago.
 
“Honestly, and you can quote me on this, I think it will spread like wildfire,” Johnson said about soccer in the area. “I think kids will really enjoy it.”
 
Edmonson County HS soccer head coach Greg Hudson began his soccer coaching career those six years ago, shifting from the Parks and Rec program director to soccer coach, he said.
 
Initially Hudson was the program director for the Parks Department here in Edmonson County and they wanted to give the kids a fall ball sport, Hudson said. With softball and baseball in the spring and summer months, basketball during winter, soccer filled the void in the fall.
 
Hudson filled the void as coach.
 
Edmonson County had tried soccer previously, in 2006 and 2007, but it didn’t go over very well at the time, Hudson said. He feels the timing of it during the hottest months of the summer, when it was offered right after baseball and softball ended, did not help it catch on.
 
Six years ago, “When they started it up again here, it just kinda took off,” Hudson said.
 
When the youth league first began there were only 31 players split amongst three teams, Hudson said.
 
The following year there were 76. Then 123, and four years ago they had 165 kids. Last year Covid-19 threw a monkey wrench into everything but they still could boast 146 players.
 
This year with the introduction of junior high and high school level play in the county, the ages for youth soccer caps at 12 years old, and they have 197 kids playing in 2021.
 
For the schools getting the go-ahead just months ago in summer made the season a little sticky to start.
 
“We had a really late start this year,” Hudson said. “It’s hard for us to get a game right now because the schedules were set.”
 ​

​

​

 
Other players like Hunter Hayes, 16, have played in youth leagues in both Edmonson County and in Bowling Green.
 
“I think we have a lot to learn,” Hayes said. “I think this is the start to something really great, and I am just happy we got to play.”
 
His favorite thing about the game was, “I think we worked hard,” he said.
 
They did indeed.
 
The jerseys came in Thursday evening, a day before their first game, but they still don’t have the shorts or socks, Hudson said.
 
“I told the boys, once the jerseys come in, we’re playing,” Hudson said.
 
“The biggest issue is getting the equipment in,” Hudson said. “Really, not only look like a team but I think once they have their complete uniforms it will help their confidence.”
 
If only having half a uniform helped their confidence, the future is looking bright for Wildcat soccer.
 
As the first whistle sounded and the game began, Hudson felt the team may have been more nervous than originally anticipated, and the three goals scored in the first 10 minutes by Barren County reflected the time it took for the reality of the new situation to set in.
 
“I think the excitement and nervousness of getting to play their first game was a little bit of why we dropped those three goals in the first half that quick,” Hudson said.
 
Once the nerves settled and patience became a tool, instead of over-pursuit, Barren County would only score one more goal in the following 50 minutes of play.
 
“They settled down and I was impressed from there on out,” Hudson said.
 
Hudson said he doesn’t feel he brought anything tactically or technically to the game, he said.
 
“That’s a credit to them,” Hudson said. “It’s easy for me to be over on the sidelines and yell instructions at ‘em, tell ‘em what to do, but once they are out there on the field, they have to perform it.”
 
He feels his whole job as coach is to keep them as calm as possible and focused on the game itself, he said. They’ll do all the rest of it.
 
At half time, the score was still the original 3-0 and Hudson brought the player to the bench.
 
“Who thought we would be down 3-0 at halftime?” Hudson asked. “More than three?”
 
Two players raised a hand.
 
“Well guess what, three to nothing is no big deal,” Hudson said.
 
The players nodded in silent agreement from the bench in the sideline dugout.
 
“So far, I am happy with the play,” Hudson said at half time. “We are still making mistakes right now because we have not played anyone but ourselves.”
 
By the end of the game the score was 4-0 in favor of BCHS, but the Wildcats had managed to make shots on goal with a couple of potential breakaways and good clears and saves by the defense and goal keepers.
 
Before the game, Hudson told his players, “as long as you get out there and you play to your best then I am satisfied with the result, whatever it is. Because we are building.”
 
The result was better than some thought would happen.
 
“Overall, I was really pleased,” Hudson said. “Honestly, I thought we would get beat by more than that.”
 

​
​One dad on the sideline, Eric Murphy, with two sons on the field, Josh and Adian Gates, thinks it’s huge the school has soccer now.
 
Not only does it give them something to do, but it gets them involved in activities he feels will help them grow, and they really like soccer, he said.
 
And about the game.
 
“I think they did awesome,” Murphy said. “I think they did great.”
 
Another dad in the stands, Jason Dooley, a math teacher at Glasgow HS, his son Ian was in the net.
 
“I think it’s good,” Dooley said. “Any activity they can offer to give the students more choices, more activities to participate in, I think it’s a good thing.”
 
He wishes the soccer team could get more support from the school system, the way basketball or football do, he said. All the activities, whether athletic or academic, all activities should be supported more because of the value they bring to the school system.
 
“I think sports are great for kids,” Dooley said. “ I see value in it and I think it’s good for the kids.”
 
And the kids after the game.
 
“Amazing,” a handful of players said as they made their way off the field at the game’s conclusion said.
 
“Do you not see the score?” They said.
 
And the more experienced players.
 
“We worked hard and I am glad the other team agreed to play, so we can learn a lot from them,” Hayes said.
 
Now, Hayes feels, they know better what they lack, and what they are strong with, he said.
 
“I think we got winded pretty fast,” Hayes said the hardest thing about the game was. “I think we need to work on our endurance and communication. Get some chemistry going.”
 
There is chemistry, it was apparent on the field in the way they team never got discouraged or down on one another in frustration. Also apparent, they just need more time on ball together against other teams.
 
“Small town, we all know each other,” Hayes said. He didn’t need to finish the sentence.
 
As the fledgling season moves forward, Hudson is excited for what the future holds.
 
“We have a very positive outlook right now for the rest of the season and we are really looking forward to next year’s season and we have everything set,” Hudson said. “We’ve got all their games scheduled ahead of time, not dealing with that and we’ve got all the equipment we need.”
 
Hudson is absolutely looking forward to moving up to varsity next year, he said.
 
“I didn’t tell them, they played perfectly, of course,” Hudson said. “I did tell them they played well and I was proud of the way they played.”

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
After a week of having neither games nor practices due to a school closure from COVID, the Lady Cat volleyball team traveled to Allen County-Scottsville to take on the Lady Patriots.

Edmonson County appeared somewhat rusty, which was to be expected; however, the Lady Cats never recovered from their early deficit. 

The Lady Patriots jumped out to a 14-5 lead but a 10-4 run brought the Lady Cats to within 3. ACS extended their lead to 22-16, which prompted a timeout from EC Head Coach Bridget Simon. Edmonson came out of the break with a good run that cut ACS's lead to 23-21, but the Lady Patriots would allow no more points for EC and they took set one 25-21.

The Lady Cats were sluggish again at the start of set two as ACS began with a 13-5 lead. Edmonson County went on a big 9-2 run that forced the Lady Patriots into a timeout with the ACS lead cut to only one at 15-14.

That was as close as Edmonson County would get in that set, narrowing the Lady Patriot lead to only 3 a couple different times, which wasn't enough as ACS went on to take set two 25-18 and complete the two-set sweep.

Alyssa Doyle led the Lady Cats in kills with 4; Kaylee Lindsey and Whitney Davis had 3 each, and Rylee Laster added 2.

Davis led Edmonson in digs with 9; Laster and Madison Bullock each added 7, Doyle and Lindsey, added 6 each, while Alivia Mabrey added 5, and Raven Cast added 2.

​Laster also led the Lady Cats with 2 service aces. 

Edmonson County is now 3-9 on the season and is scheduled to take on Glasgow on Thursday, Sept. 9th on the road. 

Edmonson Voice Sports:​
The ECHS Golf Team traveled to Windridge Country Club in Owensboro on Wednesday to play in the All A State Qualifier tournament.  Coach Kayla Meredith took her current top 5 players: Paige Wolfe, MaKayla Hogg, Hallie Cassady, Beth Elmore, and Abby Hogg. 

The ladies were faced Owensboro Catholic, McLean County, and Hancock County.  Leading the way for the Lady Cats were Paige Wolfe and MaKayla Hogg who were looking to repeat last year and qualify for state competition once more.   

ECHS found themselves just two strokes out of first place as a team, finishing just behind Owensboro Catholic. Wolfe's score of 45 and Hogg's score of 47 were each good enough to send them back to the All A State for ECHS Lady Cat golf on September 11th.  

The boys' Wildcat Lineup consisted of Andrew Talley, Jacob Williams, Levi Meredith, Cam Lich, and Evan Stice.   ECHS faced teams from Trinity, Hancock, McLean, and Owensboro Catholic.  It was back and forth most of the match with most of the pairings pretty even. 

"EC would win a hole, then one of the others would win a hole," said coach Granville Meredith. "Levi Meredith may have had the shot of the day on his opening hole.  He managed to play his ball through a small opening thru trees, over a pond, and up on the fringe.  He then stepped up and chipped in for the birdie."

Andrew Talley was the low score for the Wildcats; however, he narrowly missed the cut to advance to state competition by only two strokes.  

Coach Granville stated "We came up a little short, with the stress of what is going on with this Covid thing, but I am just glad we had the opportunity to play. We had to call off practice because of the heat indexand had to play without some players because of quarantines.  I am proud of the young men I get to coach. They are working to get better and they give me their best each and every time out.  We need to keep working and get ready for the region at the end of the month."    

Edmonson Voice Sports:
Some crazy good scores and a heap of money were turned in Saturday, August 28, 2021 at the annual Santa's Helping Hands Golf Scramble, which raised $6,000 for the local charity.

SHH, Inc., an Edmonson County non-profit organization that's operated by a completely local board, works year-round to raise money for underprivileged children and senior citizens in Edmonson County.  While the majority of their funding goes toward annual Christmas projects, the charity gives back to local families throughout the year in a number of different ways.

Two teams turned in numbers lower than what you'd see on a PGA scorecard, (23 under par) vying for the grand prize of $100 Rafferty's gift cards for each winning team member, which resulted in a sudden-death playoff. The winning team consisted of Greg Meredith, Brent Milby, James Rhoades, and Dawson McDaniels.

"It was a great turnout with 32 teams," said coordinator and SHH co-founder Mark Wardlow. "Other than the crazy heat and humidity, it was a great day and a good time was had by all."

Darren Doyle, story: Madison Doyle, photos:
Senior night was bittersweet last night at ECHS for Lady Cat Volleyball as Edmonson County struggled against Ohio County in a Region 3 match. 

​The Lady Cats honored their lone senior for this season, which was Karrington Peger. Karrington, who has seen success as a member of the ECHS track team, has also been a volleyball member for four years. She is the daughter of Michael and LeNora Peger of Brownsville.

The Lady Cats got off to a rocky start as the Lady Cats compiled a 14-4 lead early in the first set. The early deficit would prove to be too much for Edmonson County to overcome. Despite a couple of short runs for the Lady Cats later in the set, Ohio County claimed it, 25-14.

​

Edmonson County looked much better in the second set, taking an early lead; however, a rotation mixup for the Lady Cats caused some momentary confusion which led to a delay in the game. Ohio County capitalized on the momentum shift and went on a 14-3 run, prompting two Lady Cat timeouts. Ohio County won the set 25-12 and swept the Lady Cats 2-0.

The loss comes after back-to-back wins on Tuesday of this week against district foe Butler County in a three-match sweep (27-25, 25-23, 25-11), and a Monday sweep over Metcalfe County (25-14, 25-23). 

Edmonson County's victory over Butler County on Tuesday was the first district win since 2017.

Alyssa Doyle led the Lady Cats with kills (5), Kaylee Lindsey and Rylee Laster each had 2, and Whitney Davis added 1.

Davis led Edmonson with digs (11), as Doyle added 8; Karrington Peger, MaKaylee Thompson, and Alivia Mabery each had 7, and Lindsey added 6. 

Kaylee Lindsey also led Edmonson County in blocks with 4, and both Laster and Davis had one service ace each.

Edmonson County is now 3-7 on the season and is scheduled to play Trinity at home on Monday with JV action beginning at 5:30PM.

Edmonson County High School has announced that this Friday's football game at Butler County has been cancelled.

ECHS Athletic Director Brad Johnson said this was due to "a high number of quarantines."

ECHS Volleyball plays tonight at home against Ohio County in a JV/V game beginning at 5:30PM and Wildcat Football is scheduled to be back at home next Friday, September 3rd against Warren East at 7PM.

Darren Doyle, story: Joseph Barkoff, photos:
It was a rough night for the Wildcats as they took a 43-0 loss in the 2021 season opener at home against the Grayson County Cougars.

Edmonson County has a different look than its teams of the last few years with a new quarterback and other personnel, and more than 50% of the lineup are underclassmen; however, despite a running clock just before halftime, fans still saw the same effort from the Cats in the final minutes of the game as they did the first.

Edmonson County struggled to get any offense going throughout the night, and according to new head coach Ed Smart, they were simply "big-played" by the Cougars.

​The Cougars got on the board early as they moved into the red zone and Chandler McCrady scored on a one-yard touchdown run. Their two-point conversion was no good and Grayson led 6-0 7:14 to go in the first quarter.

It would be the Cougars again on a big play, as McCrady scored again, this time on a 77-yard run. Grayson converted the two points and the Cats trailed 14-0 with just over four minutes left in the first.

Grayson County continued their offense as they scored again in just a minute into the second on another touchdown. They failed on their two-point conversion but led 20-0. They continued stopping Edmonson's offense and was able to score yet again with 6:53 left in the half on McCrady's 31-yard run with a successful two-point attempt to extend their lead to 28-0.

With just over a minute to go the half, Grayson made another big play, this time on a 41-yard touchdown pass with a successful two-point conversion to grab a 36-0 lead and a running clock that would remain in place throughout the contest.

Grayson county would add one more big play to the game, a 42-yard touchdown run from Michael Wood in the third quarter with the extra point to give the Cougars a 43-0 lead and what would be the final score.

Coach Smart said defense was the key to success night.

"If you'd have asked me what the keys for our success would be, I'd have said we have to play good defense because I knew on offense we were going to struggle. So, if we didn't play good defense, we were going to be in for a long night. We didn't play good defense, and it was a long night."

Unofficial stats after the game showed the Cats with only 105 rushing yards with 17 passing yards.

Coach Smart discussed a new quarterback and the growing pains that come along.

"I told the guys at halftime, the one thing about a quarterback, that is not something that comes easy," he said. "It takes a lot--a lot of experience. Daren (Alexander) will come along. I thought he did some good things and we'll get on film and he'll watch some things."

Coach went back to his point about defense.

"We're going to hang our hat on playing good defense," he said. "That's because sometimes we're not going to have better athletes than people, but if we can play good defense, that gives us a chance. And like I said, we've got a lot of work to do. We know where we're at. My big thing with the kids honestly, we'll watch this film and by the time we play Breck in week 11, we all want to see improvement. That's the key. Because then, to me, that's coaching and our kids buying in, and that's the important thing."

Edmonson County is 0-1 on the season and will travel to Butler County next Friday against the Bears. Kickoff is scheduled for 7PM in Morgantown.

Edmonson Voice Sports:​
Edmonson County Golf Team had their first match of the year at Shady Hollow Golf Course with visiting Hart Tuesday, August 10th.   The Lady Cats put Paige Wolfe and Hallie Cassady up against the Hart Co #1 in the first match and Beth Elmore against Hart Co #2. 

With the temperature being warm and it being a little muggy, Elmore struggled on a couple of holes as a result of not feeling well. After the coaching staff was able to get her some "high quality H20" and walked along, carting her a couple of holes, she was able to finish the match and both coaches were very proud of her. 

"Sometimes when you are not feeling your best your golf game game can get you down as well," said coach Granville Meredith. "This was not the case with Beth.  She fought through feeling down and was able to finish the match. I am super proud of these young ladies. No, we didn't turn in our best scores but we never gave up."  
Paige Wolfe 41
Hallie Cassady 47   vs Hart #1 49
Beth Elmore 68  vs Hart #2 69  

The Wildcat team was looking forward to playing their first match at Shady against the Hart County boys, who had seven on their team.  The Cats matched up in a 5-on-5 team match.  The top 5 for the boys were Andrew Talley, Evan Stice, Jacob Williams, Jarrett Prunty, and Levi Meredith.  Hart County had been coming to Shady Hollow for practice and it showed as the matches began. 

Leading the way for EC was Junior Andrew Talley.  Coach Granville stated "I am leaning on Andrew right now, his ball striking and play will be needed when we get to the All-A tournament and the Region.  Andrew has the game to qualify for All A State and the KHSAA state.  He just needs to keep working. The top 5 for EC turned in some good scores-- again-- not their best scores, but they're working to improve their game.   
Andrew Talley 45  vs Hart #1 44
Evan Stice 50 va Hart #2 42
Jacob Williams 46 vs Hart #3 44
Jarrett Prunty 46 vs Hart #4 45
Levi Meredith 48 vs Hart #5 44
Team EC 185  vs Team Hart 174 

The Wildcats were back in action on Saturday at Shady Hollow in the Warren East Raider Invitational.   Eight Wildcat members played in the tournament; five as a team and three as individuals for experience.  The team started out rocky on the back with some tough holes, but slowness of play and multiple weather delays ended up being factors for the day.  Edmonson County finished 11th out of 16 teams.
 
Andrew Talley 84 Tied for 27th
Jacob Williams 92 Tied for 42nd
Levi Meredith 99 in 60th
Jarrett Prunty 100 in 61st
Evan Stice 105 in 66th
Cooper Clark 120 in 70th
Ian Madison DNF
Eli Prunty DNF

Ian and Eli did not finish the match due to weather and this being their first 18-hole match as EC members.  

Coach Granville said "I want to say I am proud of my 7th graders Ian Madison and Eli Prunty.  These two are always at practice and are willing to play against the older guys.  They are learning the game and will be the team of the future."  

Edmonson Voice Sports: Madison Doyle, photos:
Edmonson County's volleyball season got off to a positive start tonight as they defeated Glasgow in the 2021 season opener in two sets (25-20) (27-25) at ECHS. 

The Lady Cats jumped out to an 8-2 lead in set one, which prompted an early timeout from the Lady Scotties. Glasgow cut EC's lead to 14-11 which caused Head Coach Bridget Simon to call a timeout for Edmonson County. The Lady Cats extended their lead to 24-17 when Glasgow scored three in row; however, they'd score no more as the Lady Cats took set one 25-20.

Glasgow started set two with a 4-1 lead. The Lady Cats tied it at 9 each and took their first lead at 10-9. Glasgow took a timeout at a 13-13 tie and then scored the next three points. Edmonson County tied it again at 18 then forced the Lady Scotties to take their second timeout with a 20-18 EC lead. 

Glasgow tied it at 20, then again at 23, where Edmonson County called a timeout. Both teams pushed each other the score was tied at both 24, and 25 until Edmonson County was able to score the final two points for a 27-25 set win and a 2-0 sweep to start the season.

Coach Simon said she expected a close game with Glasgow.

"We normally match up well with them so I figured this would be close," she said. "I was glad to see us get off to a good start with an early lead."

She said starting the season with a win is important because early season momentum is key with the tough schedule they face this year.

"We're going to be playing some difficult teams this year," she said. "We may not win them all, but playing the tougher teams are going to be important because we're looking for a district championship this year. We want to be playing tough when it comes time for district. We want to go further than that with a trip to the region, too."

Simon said she feels like the district is pretty even this year.

"Grayson County lost some players, Trinity is always good, Butler County has seen some changes, so I like our chances in the mix," she said. "I saw some really good chemistry out there tonight. Our girls were having fun playing volleyball. No one was blaming each other on the mistakes and everyone was communicating well. We just have to keep it up as the season goes on."

​The Lady Cats will return to ECHS tomorrow night as they take on Allen County in a F/V/JV match that starts at 5:30PM.

Edmonson Voice Sports:
On Tuesday the Wildcats were back at Rolling Hills trying to best their scores from last week.  Andrew Talley a Junior, led the Wildcats with an 80 and finished in a tie for the 21st spot overall out of 96 competitors. Junior Jacob Williams scored 97, finishing in 64th overall.  Jacob carded 6 pars on the day. 
  
Sophomore Levi Meredith, bettered his score from last week with a 101 and finished in the 74th spot overall. 

Junior Cam Lich showed a big improvement over last week, cutting 7 strokes off his score with a 107 and finishing in 77th overall.  Cam is new to golf but the coaching staff says he has the potential to be a solid player for the Wildcats.  He likes the challenge and works hard, according to coach Meredith.

Junior Cooper Clark just picked up the game in May.  He has been working hard all summer hitting balls in a net and now hitting the course for the Wildcats.  Cooper finished in 79th place overall with a score of 114.  Coach Meredith said for Cooper to have just started playing and for this to be his first tournament play, he was proud of the way he handled himself. 
 
Rounding out the Top 5 this week was senior Zack Jacobs.  Zack finished with a 135, improving by 10 strokes from last week.  Zack is new to golf as well but he works at it. 

Tuesday Lady Cat Recap:
On Tuesday, Coach Kayla Meredith took the Lady Cats to Crosswinds to play in the Lady Spartan Invitational.

Paige Wolfe, a senior, shot her personal tournament best with 82 and finished in 15th place.  Coach Kayla said that Paige has been working on her game and it is showing. 
 
Senior Hallie Cassady, shot 107 and finished in 38th place overall.  Hallie is working to get back in her groove. and the senior duo will be called upon to lead this team in the upcoming season. 
 
Hannah Cassady, a 7th grader, shot 126 and finished in 48th place.  Hannah is new to the golf team but is looking to make an impact and help her team.  

Abby Hogg, an 8th grader, shot 131 and finished in 49th place.  Abby is working to get better and she will be looking to also help her team. 
 
Sophomore Beth Elmore shot 135 and finished in 52nd place.  Beth is working on her game and will be one of the leaders of the team soon. 

Lady Cat Regional Preview From Wednesday


On Wednesday Coach Granville had the opportunity to take the Lady Cat team to Indian Hills for the Region 3 Preview.  This was an opportunity for the Ladies to see where the region would be and to familiarize themselves with the golf course.

There were a few bumps and delays along the way due to some confusion regarding what hole at which the team was supposed to start.

"I will take full responsibility for a slow start yesterday," Coach Granville said. "Paige ended the day with a 94, and she expected better, but the positive thing taken away today was correcting the swing on the fly.  There were some coachable moments and Paige learned how to adjust when things aren't going perfectly.  Hallie ended the day with 115 and also learned some things today as well.  Hallie is her worst critic but she was able to pull out of a rut.  No, the ladies didn't play their best, but they never quit and kept playing through problems.  So on the positive side, I am extremely proud of these ladies."  

Abby Hogg finished with a 131.

"Whether Abby was on the Tee, in the fairway, or in the sand, I could count on that smile, said Coach Granville. "Abby is truly amazing to work with and with Coach Kayla helping her, she will be a future leader of the Lady Cat team."  

Coach Granville said that Hannah Cassady was the player of the day. Coach said that she seemed nervous in her second tournament for the Lady Cats in two days but stepped up to hole number one and put a drive in play down the fairway and never looked back. 

"She played very loose and seemed to find a friend in the Franklin Simpson playing partner and they were just out playing golf," he said. "Each time I came by her and asked how she doing she said 'great.'  One particular hole with Hannah's mom and little sister riding in the cart with me, Hannah stood on the tee with water between her and the hole. Hannah hit her tee shot, it skipped off the water twice up onto the left edge of the green, then she chipped it on and 2-putted 4 while mom, sister, and I cheered her on. Hannah finished with a 117."

Coach Granville said he wanted to express to the Lady Cat team, Wildcat team, parents, and readers, "Golf is a game.  There are a lot of factors that go into golf.  We are not professionals and if you watch the professionals they make bad shots, have bad days, and are human.  I am a true believer that it only takes one good shot to keep you coming back and wanting to play golf again. I'm very proud of the Lady Cat team playing back-to-back 18 hole tournaments, because it's tough, but these ladies are exceptional."

The coaching staff will also be working with the boys to have them ready for their opening match next week with Hart County on Tuesday, and on Wednesday the Wildcats will Travel to Owensboro to play in the All A Classic Regional Golf Tournament at Windridge Country Club. 

​Leading Group B was Hogg with a 64, followed by Cassady who carded a 72. Coach Kayla said she was impressed by the performance of the two youngsters.
  
"The future looks bright for Lady Cat golf with these two getting some experience now," she said. We'll need them to perform to help the team score in future matches.”

Parsley and Holland carded scores of 80 and 81, respectively.

"Lilly and Mia have had just a few practices and then went to this tournament to get experience and they learned so much during the event," said Coach Kayla. “I can't tell you how proud I am them for not having much experience with golf and tournament play to have the best attitude and performing their best, they did an amazing job.”

Coach Granville commented on the tournament, “I am so proud of these young ladies, they have practiced hard and they are learning. We will get better," he said. "I just want them to learn and have fun and when it is their time to compete, they will play their best. So far they have done everything we have asked them and as a coach, that's all you can ask of your players.”

Edmonson Voice Sports: 
The ECHS Golf Team got back in full swing on Friday, July 30th at Rolling Hills Golf Course, the site of the KHSAA regional golf tournament.
  
The Cats were a bit sluggish to start, which could be expected, having first-tournament jitters as well as some first- time golfers.
  
Leading the way was Junior Andrew Talley who fired an 82.  Coach Granville Meredith said that Andrew's off season hard work is already showing.  

Seniors Jarrett Prunty and Evan Stice's games began with a rocky start but they settled down to shoot 97 and 99, respectively.

"Jarrett and Evan both know what they need to work on and will be ready next week," Coach Granville said.  

Sophomore Levi Meredith shot 104 and Coach Granville said  Levi is looking to better his game from last year and has been working hard.

Junior Cam Lich and Senior Zack Jacobs are both new to the golf team and have made major strides for only practicing for two weeks.  With not having any experience at playing in a golf tournament Cam shot 114 and Zack shot 145.  

The Wildcats have another tournament on Tuesday where they will be traveling back to Rolling Hills to improve their personal and team scores.  

Coach Granville said he was excited to be coaching this group of boys.

 “These guys are working hard, they listen and then execute," he said. A coach can’t ask for more than that. We have some veteran guys and we have some newcomers, but if they continue to put the work in, not only will we be looking to be competitive this year, but also next year as well. I am not only proud of the players but also the parents of these players.  It takes buy-in from players, parents, and coaches to have a successful program.  Everyone has been overwhelmingly supportive of what Coach Kayla, myself, and our assistant coach Michael Meredith are trying to do with the program.”

The ECHS Golf Team is selling Edmonson County Wildcat apparel and gear to help support their team for the upcoming season. More than three-dozen items are available, which include t-shirts, sweatshirts, long sleeve Ts, pullovers, hats, cups, and so much more. Some items can even be personalized.

Items ordered are shipped directly to your door. 

It's as simple as clicking here.

submitted flyer:

Shea VanMeter, a 2021 graduate of Edmonson County High School signed with Brescia University today to play softball.

VanMeter said she had been thinking about Brescia non-stop since Brescia Bearcat Head Coach Traci Smith first reached out to her.

"I thought about it all the time," she said. "I was just trying to decide what was best and I know that this is best and it will pay off. I've worked too hard to just let softball go. I'm not ready to hang my cleats up just yet."

Coach Smith said VanMeter's work ethic was what drew her to the Bearcat program.

"She's got such great work ethic, and paired with her athletic ability, I mean, what more could you ask for?" she said. "I didn't hear back from her and didn't think she was interested but thank goodness her coach reached out to me and said she was still interested."

ECHS Coach Massey said anytime a player can continue their sport past high school is a big deal.

 "Not everyone gets these opportunities and it takes a lot to get to that point," she said. "To play at the next level is something you can be proud of."

Brescia is located in Owensboro, KY, and Shea plans on starting there in the fall.

Darren Doyle, story: photo courtesy of K. Madison:
Retired University of Kentucky baseball coach Keith Madison, a Brownsville native and ECHS graduate, has been announced as one of this year's inductees to the Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame.

Coach Madison was head baseball coach at UK for 25 years (1979-2003), leading the Wildcats to 737 wins, third-most in SEC history when he retired, and second-most wins for any coach in any sport in UK history behind Adolph Rupp. Madison was 26 when he took over at UK, the youngest Division I head baseball coach in history at the time, and coached 17 players who eventually played in the majors, including 2006 Cy Young winner Brandon Webb.

"I was stunned," Coach Madison told the Edmonson Voice when he heard the news about his upcoming induction. "I didn’t even know that I had been nominated. After the initial shock, the emotions I felt were humbleness and gratitude."

Madison, a 1969 graduate of Edmonson County High School, had what he described as an "incredibly rewarding" path from his home in Lindseyville to bringing success to the University of Kentucky for 25 years. 

"After being released by the Reds in ’74, I had to make some serious plans," he said. "I now had a wife but no job. Thankfully, I had attended Western Kentucky University during the off season of my baseball career and graduated the same year I was released from the Reds. Coaching was something I could pour all of my energy into and utilize the knowledge I had gained from the Expos' and Reds' coaches and field managers."

Madison's coaching beginnings started in Lake Wales, Florida, thanks to one of his cousins, Kenneth Ashley, who was teaching in the Polk County School system. He encouraged Coach Madison and his wife, Sharon, to start careers in education there. After two years at the high school level, a big break came when a graduate assistant-ship was offered him at Mississippi State University under legendary coach Ron Polk.

While finishing up graduate school at there, he began exploring coaching opportunities at the college level. 

"I was hoping for an assistant coach position at a four-year school or perhaps a head coaching opportunity at a junior college," he said. "One day toward the end of the baseball season at Mississippi State, Coach Polk told me the University of Kentucky job was “open” and he suggested that I apply. My response was, “Coach, I’m 26 years old. Cliff Hagan (Athletic Director) isn’t going to hire someone my age.” Coach Polk simply said, "send your resume, I’ll give him a call.” I sent the resume to Mr. Hagan, but before I could hear back I was offered a junior college coaching position in Illinois. I didn’t want to give up on the dream for coaching for the Wildcats so I called Mr. Hagan from my mom and dad’s house in Lindseyville and actually got through to him. I told him that I had sent my resume to him a few weeks earlier and was in Kentucky visiting my parents. He said, “can you be in my office at 10:00 tomorrow morning?” Needless to say, I made the trip. The rest is history. I became the youngest baseball coach in Division l baseball and stayed there for 25 years. The interview process and then getting the call a few days later from Cliff Hagan was surreal. I had heard my father tell stories about the great Cliff Hagan and his prowess on the basketball court, and I now I will be working for him and coaching in the SEC. Prior to the interview, the only time I had been to Lexington was when my mom and dad took us to the Kentucky High School State Basketball Tournament. It was overwhelming for a boy from Edmonson County. Fortunately, I had coaches, teachers, and family members who believed in me…probably more than I believed in myself."

Coach Madison said he could sum up his stellar career at UK In one word, "relationships."

"The players and assistant coaches were what it was all about," he said. "Seeing the players improve and reach many of their goals was rewarding. I realized soon into my coaching career that I wasn’t meant to be a Major League Baseball player, I was meant to coach. I stay in touch with many, if not most, of  my former players. It’s so special to see them now as successful businessmen, teachers, coaches, doctors, attorneys, but more importantly, good husbands and good fathers. Of course, not all of them are success stories and that is heartbreaking to see them go through difficult times. It’s almost like family. I loved the competition, loved the player development, but the relationships last a lifetime."

These days, you'll likely find him working for a faith-based non-profit organization, SCORE International, a ministry that specializes in short-term mission trips to third world countries. There, he travels with coaches, teams, and business men, where they conduct free baseball clinics, give food, clothing, and baseball equipment to kids in need. He also publishes a magazine called "Inside Pitch" with Cincinnati Reds broadcaster/commentator Chris Welsh.

Coach Madison also reflected back on his athletic career at ECHS more than 50 years ago, where he played baseball, basketball, and ran track. Football was not yet a high school sport in Edmonson County at that time.

"My baseball coach was Kaye Don Van Meter, a quiet, strong leader that had a major impact on my life," he said. "Charles Alexander was an assistant coach in baseball and basketball. He played both sports at Campbellsville University, so he was definitely instrumental in my development. Pete Clemons was my basketball coach and taught me both mental and physical toughness. We had some good teams with Tracy Meredith, Carlton Alexander, Tommy Houchin, Ed Rich, and others who were good players. I took something from every coach, including my junior high coach, Gerald Meredith, and my Little League coach, David Webb. David and I maintained a close relationship until the day he passed. I was blessed to have coaches who were not only good coaches, but good people. I’m thankful for all of them."

He coached nine UK All-Americans, 20 first-team All-SEC selections, 89 SEC academic honors award-winners and led UK to two NCAA appearances. In 1999, he was pitching coach for Team USA; in 2007, he was inducted into the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) Hall of Fame; and in 2013 earned the Lefty Gomez Lifetime Achievement Award for contributions to amateur baseball.

Madison is a former president of the ABCA and currently chairman of the board.

The 2021 Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame Inductees and their families will be honored on Sept. 7, 2021, at the Galt House Hotel in downtown Louisville.  For more info, contact Julie Howell at jhowell@louisvillesports.org / (502) 587-6742.

"Everyone needs someone to believe in them," Coach said. "I was fortunate to have a wonderful mother and father who believed in me and supported me. They made sure that church came before sports. They instilled in me the importance of faith in Christ and treating people with respect. I had numerous teachers and coaches who taught the same values.  My parents, each coach, each teacher, each former player, assistant coach, and each teammate are a huge part of this honor. I am very thankful and I know this could not have happened without God opening the doors."