Jackson County's Garland named one of nation's best

AKRON OHIO -- Jackson County junior shortstop Mason Garland survived a tough qualifying process to be named one of the top 45 ranked softball players in the nation to participate in the 2012 All American Games held at Firestone Stadium this past weekend.

More than 1,000 players from around the nation competed for a chance to be named to one of the teams. The process included cutting down to the top 109 players and the final cut resulted in the top 45 players.

Garland began the process with the Southeast Top Prospect Showcase held at Mercer University in March.

Garland played in three games was awarded The Most Outstanding Defensive Player of the event in Ohio.