This article just got published today on ESPN and it's definitely worth reading. For those that don't follow VT Softball, they are currently playing the ACC Tournament Semifinals and are likely headed to the NCAA Tournament as well. Courtney Liddle was recently drafted to play professional fastpitch softball and Bailey has been on the rise this year. It's obvious to see where their motivation and drive comes from when you read about their mother.
"I don't know if escape is the right word, but I can just step on the field and focus on mechanics and fundamentals and being there for the girls and cheering, and all that other stuff just goes out the window," Courtney said. "That's what my parents want, too. That's why they come to all the games, and we can enjoy them together. I think we can all just kind of get away from everything and be at a softball game, which is something that has been so stable for our whole life. Softball has always been a huge part of our family, and that hasn't changed, even with my mom's illness."
I knew their mother had breast cancer, but never knew it was Stage IV cancer. They even made a video for their mom with the help of Hokie Nation for Christmas.
These girls are talented athletes and even stronger people. I, for one, hope that they are able to go far in the NCAA tournament and even further in life.
Comments
Great story. This stuff and the "My Wish" series are about the only things that I like from ESPN.
I see what you did there with the "Liddle" sisters....very clever...if I could +1 you I would.
On a more serious note, this is a great story. I always found sports to be a good getaway when I was growing up.
I had a class with Bailey last fall. Seems to be a really nice girl, and I'm glad to see this story.
Robert Brown is Hok, er, um, Blazer strong... too soon? Wait, not soon enough! In all seriousness though, I wish the best for the Liddle family as they fight cancer, and good luck to Brown at UAB. I had high hopes for him as he was the only Hokie athlete I know I made a burger for in my semester working at DX.
Despite a loss to eventual ACC Champion NC State on Friday in the semifinals, we were selected for the NCAA Tournament. We are the 3rd seed in a regional hosted by the University of Kentucky with Kentucky, Notre Dame (2nd seed), and Marshall (4th seed). We will play Notred Dame first.
Also of note is that we played 11 teams that made the NCAA Tournament this year, 8 of which are outside the ACC. We had wins over 6 of them as well.
Congrats VTSB!!