GENTRY, AR – As the academic year nears its close, Gentry High School's student-athletes are turning up the heat with a pivotal week of postseason play across multiple sports. From track and field to baseball, softball, and soccer, the Pioneers are ready to compete at the highest level.
Softball Pioneers Ride Momentum into Regionals
Fresh off an electrifying 1-0 extra-inning win over Pea Ridge to capture the district championship, the Gentry Lady Pioneers softball team enters the 4A North Regional Tournament as the No. 1 seed from the 4A-1 Conference. They will face Clarksville, the No. 4 seed from the 4A-4 Conference, at 10 a.m. on Thursday in Gravette. A win would not only advance the Lady Pioneers to the semifinals Friday at noon, but also secure a coveted spot in the 4A State Tournament for the second consecutive year.
The softball team is led by Head Coach Shawn Teters and Assistant Coach Lance Nations.
Baseball Team Makes Historic Regional Appearance
In a milestone achievement, the Gentry baseball team has qualified for the regional tournament for the first time in 13 years. The Pioneers, who enter as the No. 4 seed from the 4A-1 Conference, will face Pottsville, the top seed from the 4A-4 Conference, at 3 p.m. Thursday in Gravette. The winner not only moves on to the tournament semifinals, but also earns a place in the 4A State Tournament.
The team is coached by Head Coach Anthony Nail and Assistant Coaches Drew Golden and Matt Morgan.
Seven Pioneers Set for State Track & Field Meet
Following strong performances at the district meet, seven Gentry athletes have qualified for the state track and field meet to be held Tuesday in Heber Springs. The qualifiers include:
Joseph Rodriguez – Pole Vault
Braden Woodcock – Pole Vault
Aidan Eller – Discus
Aja Smith – 100m Hurdles, 4x100 Relay, 4x200 Relay
Ryliegh Eklund – 4x100 Relay, 4x200 Relay
Briley Reamer – 4x100 Relay, 4x200 Relay
McKenzie Barnes – 4x100 Relay, 4x200 Relay
The track and field team is under the leadership of Head Coaches Bobby Watson and Jackson Bray, with assistance from Shelby Ellison.
Girls’ Soccer Eyes State Tournament Berth
The Gentry girls’ soccer team is preparing for the upcoming 4A State Soccer Tournament, set to begin May 15. The team is currently awaiting final seeding and opponent determination based on remaining conference matchups statewide.
The Lady Pioneers are coached by Jamie Johnson, with Assistant Coach Daniel Marroquin.