LARRY LARKIN

Progress Correspondent

One is a tad taller, but otherwise, they are very similar. Both like to wear their blond hair back in ponytails and it is easy for each one to break out in award-winning smiles.

Teen-agers Keeli Garroutte and Cassidy Bowen are looking forward to a happy and joyful senior year at Claremore High School. Meeting new friends, making good grades, deciding on the perfect dress for the senior prom. It’s all on their agendas.

The two also have another matter to settle. Cassidy and Keeli are determined to bring another state softball championship home to their school.

"It has been four years since the last one, and it's time," Keeli said firmly last week.

If another gold ball is captured by the Lady Zebras this fall, be assured that both of these 17-year-olds will be leading the way.

Keeli will once again fill the No. 1 pitcher's role for team. After making several starts as a sophomore, Keeli took over the key job last year, holding opposing hitters to less than one earned run per game.

Moving to Claremore from Grove a year ago, Cassidy quickly stepped into the catcher’s position and she has been a standout. Able to handle Keeli's fastballs and curves with equal style, Cassidy has accepted a scholarship offer to play for the University of Tulsa next year.

Her father, Rodney, is the head softball coach.

That’s another connection the girls share. They both come from a high school coaching background.

Keeli's father, David, was head football coach of the Zebras in the mid-1990s. He is now superintendent of Justus-Tiawah Schools.

"At practice, and games, my father treats me just like the other girls,” Cassidy said. “Well, maybe a little tougher at times, but at home he is Dad. All the players realize he is a no-nonsense coach on the field. He wants us to give our best and that's what I want to do."

Keeli said: "I was just 5 when Dad quit coaching, but I remember being around the players and all the things going on. Now he tries to make all our games. My mother will be some place in the stands, but Dad is always behind the backstop yelling out words of encouragement."