Polk County has a great reputation for fastpitch softball as seven programs have combined to win 21 state title led by Bartow’s nine titles. However, this is a strange year as there is a big drop-off after the top teams, although at least two teams have the talent to win a state title
On the positive side, Bartow and Lake Region are the strongest contenders for a state title. They are the most solid in pitching, hitting and defense. Lake Wales has an outside shot of reaching the state tournament. Pitcher Anna Conroy was the starting pitcher when Lake Wales won two years ago.