- April 25, 2024
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A father-daughter duo has the Lady Renegades softball team primed for a World Series title run
BY ANDREW O'BRIEN | SPORTS EDITOR
For many players and parents, it was just another tournament for the Ormond Beach Lady Renegades high school competitive softball team last weekend. But for coach Alan Hand and his daughter, Alana, it was a bit more special than that.
It was Father’s Day weekend, but it was also another chance for Alan Hand to continue helping his daughter improve at the game they both love.
Alan Hand has been coaching baseball and softball in Volusia County since 1997. Five years ago, he began coaching softball and, also, his daughter.
After five years sharing the same dugout, the duo has become a Renegades staple.
The Lady Renegades hosted a Father’s Day tournament June 15-16, at the Ormond Beach Sports Complex. The high school team took fifth place after going 3-1 on the first day but losing the first game Sunday in single-elimination. The Lady Renegades are 12-5 this season.
Hand said there is a lot to consider as far as age and skill level for each player. Knowing your players goes a long way in their development and the success of the team.
But knowing his daughter’s skill set is also important. Just as important, though, is learning to let softball stress stay where it belongs: on the field.
“Sometimes I don't leave situations on the field where it should be left, but I am sure that's true for any involved parent,” Hand said, of coaching his daughter.
Alana Hand, who primarily plays first base and pitches, is recovering from knee surgery. She has played softball for seven years and will be a senior next year at Seabreeze High School. In 10 games this summer, she is hitting .333 with one triple and four RBIs.
She knows her dad probably pushes her harder than some of the other players. They both know that’s part of the deal.
“When on the field, I look at my father just as I would any other coach,” Alana Hand said. “Although there's times when I know he is harder on me, I truly appreciate it, because I know he is pushing me to be the best I can possibly be. I am blessed to have the opportunity to play for my father.”
Alana Hand’s road back onto the softball field wasn’t easy, though. It was an eye-opening experience to never take things for granted, she said.
“When it was actually time to be on the field with my team again, I was ecstatic and so thankful to be back doing what I love,” Alana Hand said. “Throughout the process, I truly learned to not take anything for granted and to always give 110% when playing, because you never know when it may be your last opportunity.”
Through 10 games heading into the tournament, the team was hitting .413, including a .450 batting average with runners in scoring position
Though Hand wants to win, he knows there is much more to life than just hitting and pitching — or, in the case of his daughter, playing first base.
“Aside from the obvious, such as spending time together connecting and sharing the love of the game with her, it's satisfying to see her growth and confidence, and knowing I played a role,” Alan Hand said.
The Lady Renegades will compete in the United States Specialty Sports Association World Series, which will be July 27 through Aug. 3, in Kissimmee. There, competitive softball teams from across the United States and other countries will compete for top softball honors.
The Lady Renegades will play in two more tournaments before competing in the World Series.
In October, the Ormond Beach Lady Renegades club will celebrate its 10th anniversary. All of the teams in the organization will jump aboard a cruise ship and sail to the Bahamas, where they will work with local fast-pitch sanctions and play in a tournament.
Season statistics
Heading into last weekend’s tournament, the Lady Renegades high school level played 10 games this season. Individual statistical leaders are as follows:
Michelle Hughes: .550 batting average
Ashley Anderson: 8 runs batted in
Boo Thomas: 8-for-8 in stolen bases
Alana Hand and Hayley Garris: 35 innings pitched, 26 Ks, 14 walks and 10 wins
