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SPANISH FORK — The Grantsville Cowboys weren't about to let history slip away.
In dominant fashion, the Cowboys powered past the Emery Spartans 11-1 Saturday at the Spanish Fork Sports Complex to claim its third consecutive 3A softball state championship.
"It's the best feeling in the world right now," Grantsville head coach Tony Cloward said. "When it's your third in a row state championship. These girls are terrific."
After a dramatic rally from 7 runs down to beat Emery 9-8 in their first meeting on Friday, the Cowboys made sure there was no need for late-game heroics this time around.
With two runners on base, junior star Hayden Bytheway smashed a home run, giving the Cowboys an early 3-0 lead and setting the tone for the rest of the game.
"I think we had a lot more motivation because we didn't want it to be as stressful as last time and I'm glad we pulled through," Bytheway said. "It feels amazing and I'm just so happy that my team could end the season with such a big win."
Bytheway, who finished the season with a .523 batting average, was the driving force on both sides of the field. She not only sparked the offense with her bat but also dominated in the circle, racking up strikeouts and keeping Emery's bats silent.
"I can't speak enough about Hayden Bytheway; she's the real deal," Cloward said. "I mean, we rode her as our ace in the circle and she gives us bats, too. She just does it all; she's such a terrific player. Her sister came up with that clutch hit double in right field, too, so those Bytheway sisters are just incredible."
Hayden's twin sister, Payton, was equally impactful, making life difficult for any team that dared to challenge the Cowboys. The duo led a Grantsville squad that showcased not only an explosive offense but also a lockdown defense that has become their signature this season.
"It just happens to be that it's Grantsville's turn to be the dominant program. We are getting great talent year in and year out." Cloward said.
Even with four seniors — seniors Cloward called "the glue of our team" — the future looks bright for Grantsville. Freshman Kamry Allen, an emerging star, is already looking ahead to building on her championship experience.
"I'm excited because I can get more in my future and gain more experiences with this team," Allen said. "Going to be more fun seeing the game more than what I did this year." On her sliding mitt helping her on the base paths, " I swim around the tags now."
For Grantsville, Saturday's win was not just another title — it was a statement. The Cowboys have built a softball dynasty. And with a four-peat on the horizon, Grantsville shows no signs of slowing down.
"That was their goal," Cloward said. "They wanted to go out with a three-peat. Our seniors are incredible."
As the Cowboys hoisted their third straight trophy, there was little doubt: Grantsville is the gold standard in 3A softball.
