Kim Richards and Kelli Barnett have been inducted into Dixie Softball’s National Hall of Fame. They were nominated by Dixie District 5 representatives for their outstanding leadership, strong beliefs in sportsmanship and dedication to Dixie Softball. They love the game, their players, coaching and totally support the local league’s efforts to continue to build their program.
Kim has served Honey Grove’s Dixie League for 21 years in numerous capacities. During her tenure she’s served the board as softball commissioner, president and has been coaching 21 years. Kim has a great coaching career for Dixie Softball, coaching ages all ages, from the 9 year old Dixie Angels to the 18 year old Dixie Debs. She has represented Honey Grove in numerous district and state tournaments and a World Series appearance in 2003. She retired from her board service in 2007 but continues to support the league and is still coaching.
Kelli served HG’s Dixie League for 10 years, also serving on the board 9 of the last 10 years in various positions including softball commissioner and treasurer. She completed her 10th year as a coach this season and she will also continue to coach next year. Kelli has coached the different age divisions throughout the years, Dixie Darlings (7-8), Dixie Angels (9-10), Dixie Ponytails (11-12) and Dixie Belles (13-15). She has also represented Honey Grove in numerous district and state tournaments over the last 10 years.
Since 1993 there have only been 3 other people inducted to Dixie Softball’s National Hall of Fame from the State of Texas. In 2008, Texas is proud to add two more names to the list and their names will be listed in the front of next years rule book along with the other hall of fame members.
The Honey Grove Dixie League Board of Directors will host a reception to honor Kim and Kelli on Sunday, September 7, 2008 at 2:00PM in the Bertha Voyer Civic Center. Sharon Lafitte, who is a National Board member, as well as the District Director for District 5, will be there to make a presentation to the honorees. The local board encourages everyone who would like to applaud these ladies to attend. A short meeting to elect the new board for the next year will follow the presentation and everyone is invited and encouraged to stay and participate in this election.