Bears second baseman Brad McDonald, above, was named District 20-3A’s Defensive Player of the Year for 2010. Loyd Cook Photo The regard in which District 20-3A coaches held the Brownsboro Bearettes softball team was never more evident than when the All-District Team was released recently.

Two of the five superlative honors went to Brownsboro players. Five Bearettes were named to the first team, with two of those selections getting unanimous votes from district coaches. There were three Bearettes on the second team and one garnering honorable mention notice.

“I think the honors are indicative of the team we had,” head coach James Croley said. “We were in the running for the district championship until the end and it reflects the way the girls worked throughout the year.”

And the notice comes even though Brownsboro fielded a fairly young team in 2010, and will be graduating only three players -- of which, two were starters.

“With only losing two starters, we should be a favorite for a playoff spot (next year),” Croley said. “I believe having experience should translate into a great season.”

Carley Smith, a junior shortstop, was named as the district’s Most Valuable Player. Bearettes catcher Moran Barnes, a fresh- man, was named as the Newcomer of the Year.

Second baseman Allison Palmer (junior) and outfi elder Lacey Pettit (senior) were the two Bearettes that were unanimous selections to first team, All-District honors.

Also named to the first team from Brownsboro were: Paige Goggans, sophomore, pitcher; Lindsey Wood, senior, outfield; and Ashleigh Alford, junior, designated player.

On the second team were: Chelsea Holcomb, junior, first base; Taylor Barnes, junior, third base; and Maranda Goode, junior, outfield.

Sophomore pitcher Taylor McIntyre was an honorable mention selection.

“Having a relatively young team meant we suffered through some growing pains at times,” Croley said of the recently-completed season. “Once district came, we became a lot more consistent. This group matured throughout the season and will only become better.”