G-VILLE PRIDE; Back-to-back state champions, star softball trio ink with college programs

By Shea Haile

Courier Sports 

GORDONSVILLE — The Gordonsville High School community and student body celebrated a special and revered trio of athletes last Friday as GHS softball’s Abby Brinkley, Kailey Plumlee and Bailey Stewart signed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level.

The upcoming Tigerettes’ softball seniors have played key roles on Gordonsville’s 2023 (35-5 record)  and 2024 Class A state championship (33-5 record) units. The Tigerettes outscored their combined opponents 47-2 and outhit their competition 49-2 during their 2024 title run. 

Plumlee became the program’s second ever Gatorade Tennessee Player of the Year and holds the season and career strikeout record at GHS in officially signing with the University of Tennessee’s Lady Vols softball program. Stewart has been a mainstay behind the plate as the Big Blue catcher while also adding an explosive bat to the unit’s lineup — she will join the Vol State Community College program. Brinkley’s athleticism has been on display in the outfield and at the plate for the Tigerettes over the last three seasons as she is bound for Arkansas to join Division II’s Henderson State program. 

Gordonsville head softball coach Jonathan Bush discussed the journey for the Tigerette stars.  

“Only 67 percent of kids further their playing career in college — it is getting very tough to do it these days,” said Bush. “I am proud that these girls were willing to make that step to further their career and further their education. There is nothing better than getting an education and playing the game that you love.”

Bush continued, “They showed me some pictures the other day from when they were small — so it has been a very long process ever since they were young and playing. I am just glad they are able to further their career playing at these universities.”

The trio’s Tigerette careers has been highlighted by two state championship appearances and 121 victories. 

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