Heading into the final week of her prep career, Warren East senior pitcher Katie Gardner had two goals still within reach – win Miss Softball and help the Lady Raiders win a state title.

One goal down, one to go.

Gardner was named Miss Softball on Sunday. She is the first Lady Raider to win the honor and the first player in Region 4 to win Miss Softball since Allen County-Scottsville’s Kelsi Pardue in 2012.

“It was a little bit overwhelming at first, but I have had a few days to let it settle in,” Gardner said. “I’m kind of ready to put it to the side and get focused back on state.”

The quest for the second goal begins Friday when Warren East faces Ashland Blazer at noon CDT in the KHSAA State Fast Pitch Softball Tournament in Lexington.{&end}