BREAKING: South Caldwell catcher Mcartney Harrington has just been named the 4A West Region Player of the Year by the North Carolina Fastpitch Coaches Association, a prestigious honor that solidifies her impact on the field. The announcement comes as Harrington, a rising senior and Clemson commit, led her team to a triumphant 4A state softball championship in Durham earlier this May.
Harrington’s remarkable season included a staggering batting average of .510, with 12 home runs, 45 RBIs, and a team-leading .636 on-base percentage. She also showcased her on-field prowess by drawing 31 walks, culminating in an impressive 1.605 OPS. “When my mom asked who I thought won it, I started naming players — I was shocked when she said it was me,” Harrington said, reflecting on her unexpected recognition.
In a heartfelt statement, she credited her teammates and the fierce rivalry with Alexander Central for pushing her to excel. “Great teammates helped me play to my best ability,” Harrington noted. “That rivalry was like a step-up point. When we faced them in the playoffs, we thought, ‘if we can win this game, we can win it all.’” As she gears up for her senior year, Harrington is focused on enjoying the game and hopes to hit even more home runs.
This honor is part of a larger recognition of talent in the region, with 20 Hickory-area players receiving all-state nods. Notably, Karsyn Sigmon from Fred T. Foard has also been acknowledged, winning the 3A District Seven Pitcher of the Year for the third consecutive season. Sigmon expressed her gratitude, stating, “This validates the work I’ve put in.” She is committed to continue her career at Wofford College.
Harrington’s achievement highlights not only her individual talent but the strength of the South Caldwell program, which boasted six all-state players this year, while Alexander Central had four. The recognition extends across the region, with Bandys, Bunker Hill, and Maiden also receiving accolades.
As Harrington prepares for her final high school season, she aims to make it memorable. “I’d like to hit a few more home runs and hopefully be named Gatorade Player of the Year,” she said, recognizing the challenge ahead. With her current total of 32 career home runs in three years, she is poised for a remarkable senior year.
Stay tuned for more updates as Harrington and her teammates continue to make waves in the world of high school softball. The excitement around this season is palpable, with fans eagerly watching the next chapter in Harrington’s promising athletic career.