Nomination year: 2023

Nominated by: Crystal Watson

Nomination Category: Athletes & Coaches

Sport: Softball

Years Participated: 2004-2008

Career Summary:

Chelsea (Cross) Goff was a star softball player from 2004 to 2008 at Clay County High School, where she became a trailblazer for Lady Bulldog softball as an outstanding three-year starting pitcher and excellent hitter, which allowed her the opportunity to play at the next level and to be recognized as an All-State player.

Goff, who was a multi-sport athlete prior to deciding to focus on softball in high school, wasn’t just a force in the pitching circle, she also took charge in the batter’s box.  During her final two seasons at Clay County, she batted cleanup for the Lady Bulldogs and was considered one of the best players in the area and across the state.

Consistently pitching in the mid-60’s (mph) her junior season, Goff led her team to a District Runner-up finish and Regional appearance while batting .380 and striking out an average of eight batters per game.  Individually the same year, she was named the 2007 MVP, All-Tri-County Conference, District All-Tournament, Miss Softball, TSCA All-State Pitcher, and to the TSCA All-Star Team.

Goff’s senior year in 2008 would then be her best yet, as she reached a top pitching speed of 68 miles per hour, which is equivalent to a 95-mph fastball in baseball.  She also averaged .410 at the plate and 12 strikeouts per game en route to leading her team to a District Runner-up and Regional finish for the second season in a row.  Additionally, Goff pitched a no-hitter and went an unprecedented 21 innings in the District Championship game.

Setting a high bar for Clay County softball, Goff was the first player in program history to be chosen not only for the TSCA All-State Team, but she also played in the TSCA All-Star game featuring players from across the state.  She was also awarded the TSCA Scholarship and, after earning multiple offers to continue her career, Goff accepted one to Roane State to play at the collegiate level.

Nominator comment:

“I didn’t see her play, but when I moved here to coach softball, Chelsea’s reputation proceeded her.

“I knew she had left her mark when I had opposing coaches telling me how good she was 10 years after she played. I have been around ball my whole life, and when you are remembered like that, you are Hall of Fame worthy.  That is why I am nominating Chelsea (Cross) Goff for induction into the Clay County Sports Hall of Fame.”