'Big honor' for Tissier, Tedder to play in All-Star game

Abby Tissier and Mary Katherine Tedder are two of the top softball players in the state of Alabama, let alone the Birmingham area.

The Hoover and Spain Park High School stars were honored by being selected to play in the AHSAA North-South All-Star Softball Game, which took place Tuesday night at Lagoon Park in Montgomery.

“It’s a really big honor,” said Tissier, the Lady Bucs’ catcher and a rising senior. “I know that a lot of people from a lot of different schools wanted to be in this.”

Both players represented the North team, which swept the doubleheader, 12-4 and 4-1. Tedder said playing with a completely different set of teammates did not present many difficulties.

“We practiced twice, so it wasn’t that hard getting used to it. You just have to play your game and play your role,” she said.

Tissier rotated in at catcher often and Tedder spent most of the night at shortstop, and even made an appearance at second base. Neither registered a hit on the evening, but both were excited to officially cap off the school season and begin preparing for their senior campaigns.

“The only thing I have on my mind right now is winning state,” said Tedder, as the Lady Jags were Class 7A runners-up in May. “That’s the only thing I’m going to be worrying about all year. But we have to take it one step at a time.”

Tissier’s main focus is improving on aspects of the game that don’t necessarily require athleticism and bat speed.

“Leadership’s a big thing,” she said. “I’ve always been a catcher, so you kind of lead on the field. I just want to make sure that I set a really good example for all of the underclassmen that are coming up.”  She also mentioned needing to continue showing a strong work ethic.

Tedder’s name has been in the news all summer, as she has been recognized on various regional and national levels for her on-field performance in the spring.

“It’s very overwhelming, but humbling at the same time, because I’ve worked so hard and it’s paying off in the right time. I’m just glad to see it come through. I thank God for the opportunity,” she said.