Shiver honored at World Series; jersey to hang in hall

BY: TRACEY JAGNEAUX
Sports Editor

It is thrilling to come home with a World Series championship medal.
But, when you are the one player picked out of all of the girls that participated in the 26 team World Series tournament to have your jersey honored at the PONY national headquarters, well that is something extra special.
That is what happened to Kali Shiver.
The 8U Ville Platte PONY all-star was selected to have her jersey hang in Washington, Pennsylvania for the upcoming year to represent her team’s World Series title.
Shiver was honored because she represented the ideals of PONY; teamwork, sportsmanship and positive attitude.
“The tournament director came to me right after the last game and asked the coaches to pick one person who represented those PONY values on our team,” said Head Coach Shane Darbonne. “Immediately, all the coaches said it had to be Kali. She just embodies those qualities.”
When asked her reaction to the tremendous honor, Shiver was very honest.
“At first I did not understand,” stated Shiver. “My dad had to explain it to me. Once I understood, I was really happy.”
Her parents could not be more thrilled for their daughter.
“As a dad, I am so humbled that they picked Kali,” said James Shiver. “I literally cried tears of joy. It was an awesome feeling. She loves softball so much. Kali is the type of kid that just brings everyone up, no matter what.”
“I was shocked,” said her mom Ashley Fontenot. “I did not know they were doing that. I am so very proud of her. Kali strives to please people and always has a positive attitude on and off the field. She is very humble. Kali was amazed that they gave this honor to her.”