State softball tournament

Day one of the state softball tournament is almost in the books, and it was a rough one for Grand Island Senior High. The Islanders fell to Papillion-LaVista South 10-2 in five innings and Omaha Westside 10-0 in four innings. Still, the Islanders generated some highlights while taking a 2-1 lead against PLVS in the second inning. They had four hits in the inning against a team that hasn't given up more than two runs in a game this season and against ace Alexa Mackevicius, who came into state with a 23-0 record and a 0.45 ERA.
Things seemed to run pretty smoothly at Hastings' Bill Smith Softball Complex in its state hosting debut. Officials were keeping a close eye on last week's district tournament and using it as a trial run. Even though the facility has hosted a handful of national tournaments, everyone involved seems to be treating the state tournament as the most important event the complex has hosted.
One disappointing thing is the hostility some Omaha fans seem to have about having to come clear out here west of Lincoln to attend. A "Seymour Smith" chant even broke out during the Papillion-LaVista vs. Millard South first-round game in support of the Omaha facility that used to host state.
Why? The Smith Complex is a top-notch facility. Sure, it isn't fair that Omaha teams have to travel two-plus hours when teams like Grand Island, Hastings and McCook never pile up miles traveling to play games or attend state competitions. Yes, Hastings is 10 miles away from Cheyenne. But if your priority is to complain about everything instead of enjoying a well-run event, maybe you should make sure your daughter plays only sports that won't require any trip west of Lincoln...volleyball, swimming, basketball, tennis, soccer and track all make great options.