Lyons, GA. – January 31, 2025 | Coach Hayne Brant

It was a special day for the Toombs County Softball program as two standout players signed to continue their careers at the next level. Nora Grace Mercer and Shay Stringer will be taking their talents to the collegiate stage after leaving a lasting impact on the Lady Bulldogs’ program.

Nora Grace Mercer – Tallahassee State College

Mercer will be heading to Tallahassee State College in Florida after an incredible four-year career at Toombs County. A consistent force at the plate, she holds the career hits record with 128 and the single-season records for plate appearances (124) and runs scored (40). She also tied for the most at-bats in a single season (106).

As the leadoff hitter in her senior season, Mercer batted .377, hitting nine doubles and stealing 19 bases. She was named First Team All-Region and Second Team All-State for her contributions.

Coach Brant spoke highly of Mercer’s leadership, saying, “Nora Grace will truly be missed—not just on the field, but off the field as well. She was our leader, always leading by example and bringing the team together when needed. I know she will represent Toombs County well down in Florida, and I couldn’t be more excited for her future.”

Shay Stringer – Georgia Southern University

Stringer made history by becoming the first Division I softball player from Toombs County, signing with Georgia Southern University. She leaves behind an unmatched legacy as one of the most dominant pitchers in program history.

Stringer holds multiple single-season and career records, including:

• Single-season strikeouts: 274
• Career strikeouts: 620
• Single-season shutouts: 9
• Career shutouts: 17
• Career wins: 47
• Single-season wins: 19
• No-hitters this season: 4 (including 1 perfect game)

Opposing hitters struggled mightily against Stringer, as she held them to a .123 batting average this season. Her dominance earned her the titles of Region Pitcher of the Year, First Team All-State, and ABCA Pitcher of the Year for GHSA Single-A Division I.

Coach Brant praised Stringer’s impact on the program, saying, “Shay is the best pitcher to ever come through Toombs County. Her work ethic and talent set a high standard for our younger players. I have no doubt she will do big things at Georgia Southern, and I feel blessed to have coached such a generational talent. I’m excited that she’ll be close to home so we can continue to watch her play.”

A Legacy of Excellence

This senior class leaves behind an incredible legacy, winning 78 total games, making three playoff appearances, and advancing to Columbus twice. This past season, they set school records by winning 28 games, capturing the program’s first region championship, and finishing as GHSA State Runners-Up with a 28-4 record.

Congratulations to Nora Grace Mercer and Shay Stringer on their well-earned success, and best of luck at the next level! Go Dawgs!