For the first time in Goshen school history, an Eagle took the field Wednesday night in the AHSAA North-South All-Star Softball Game.

The Eagles’ Amanda Griggs was the first player from Goshen to play in the game, as she was a member of the south squad in the annual doubleheader.

Unfortunately for Griggs, however, the South was beaten by the North soundly in both games, losing 11-0 in game one and 12-1 in game two.

Despite the losses, Griggs said after the game being able to participate was a great learning experience.

“It was really cool, and I actually learned a lot,” Griggs said.

“The hitters up there were so talented, and I picked up a lot just watching all their great hitting styles.”

Griggs was 0-2 in game one, but came up with an infield single in game two.

Now, Griggs will return to Goshen for her senior season as the only All-Star eagle ever.

“It’s a pretty big honor,” Griggs said.

“I knew a couple of the girls, and they were great players, so to be able to play with them was a really cool experience. But, I’m glad I have coaches like I do because without them, I wouldn’t be here.”

The coaches Griggs spoke of are Goshen head coach Dee Hughes and GHS assistant coach Amy Warrick, who helped lead the Eagles to an area championship last season.

Hughes said Griggs’ participation in the game would help to motivate the rest of the Eagles heading into the 2011 season.

“It just goes to show the other girls that if they work hard to accomplish their goals, anything is attainable,” Hughes said.

While Griggs’ all-star nomination may be an inspiration to her teammates, the experience is one Griggs said will make her a better player in the future.

“The pitching here was so much tougher,” Griggs said.

“It had more movement, and the pitchers were more experienced. It was kind of like playing in a college game.”

Even though Griggs is the only Eagle to ever play in the game, it is an honor she said she shares with not just her coaches and teammates, but all her friends and family as well.’

“I just want to thank my coaches for helping to get me here and all my teammates, friends and family for supporting me all along,” Griggs said.