On July 22, the Prince Edward-Farmville Youth Association (PEFYA) team won the Dixie Softball Debs State Tournament. Not only was their exceptional feat due to the athleticism and dedication of the players, but also should be credited to the volunteers who helped them along the way.

Without patient coaches, supporting family and helpful volunteers by their side, the PEFYA Debs team would have had a harder time winning the state tournament — or even making it through its season.

Coaches put in their own time after normal work hours to come to practice and help the girls improve their skills. Parents and family provided rides to and from games and practices, and were the everlasting support players needed if they were having a bad day.

And, let’s not forget about the equally commendable volunteers. One may not know it, but there are people in the PEFYA community who don’t have children playing in the association. They simply love the game and helping others. They come to do whatever they can to help, whether it be working the concession stand or donating to the teams to ensure they can have a memorable season.

All of these “behind-the-scenes” people were important in aiding the PEFYA Debs in getting to the state tournament, and all of them should be thanked.