When it comes to softball season, the Bulloch Academy Gators only ever have one thing on their mind — success.
    Even after bumping up to Class AAA — the highest classification in GISA — last season, the Gators have continued to be a force in their region and throughout the state.
    Leading the way for Bulloch this season is senior shortstop Marianna Pebbles. As one of eight starters returning from last year’s playoff team, Peebles knows that the Gators have a chance to do bigger and better things in 2012.
    “I feel like I have more responsibility as a senior,” said Peebles. “I can take some of the younger girls under my wing. Mainly, I just try to play hard and do what I can to help us win.”
    Peebles has taken that responsibility and run with it, shoring up the middle of the infield for Bulloch. That sort of stability and dependability is exactly what Bulloch coach Chandler Dennard has wanted to see since the beginning of the season.
    “We play so many good teams in this region,” said Dennard. “In those games, and in playoff games, it’s pitching and defense that are going to get us where we want to go.”