On May 25, the varsity softball team defeated the mighty Damascus Hornets 4-0 in the state semi-finals. Damascus came into the semi-final game with an undefeated record of 22-0 and was the number one seed in the state tournament. The Hornets even had UMBC commit Bella DiGiandomenico for the “win or go home” matchup. Despite this, the Lancers defied the odds and will be attending the state finals on Saturday, May 28 at the University of Maryland. Tickets can be purchased on the MPSSAA website.

This is the Lancers’ third time participating in the state championship game and seventh appearance in the state playoffs. However, they have yet to bring a state championship to the school.

Varsity softball has had an outstanding season as they currently have an overall record of 18-5 and a regional record of 11-2. Some of the Lancers’ most impressive wins include a 26-4 massacre against North Hagerstown and two blowout victories against rival Oakdale High.

On May 18 the varsity softball team played TJ for the regional title and won with a score of 10-0. This win felt extra sweet for the girls as last season they fell 9-8 in the regional championship.  The Lancers followed up this win with yet another 10-0 victory against Wilde Lake on May 20.  Leading up the matchup against Damascus, the Lancers had outscored their opponents by a whopping score of 24-0. Combined with the Lancers’ elite defense, their hitting has consistently been the best aspect of the team throughout their playoff run.

“This is the best feeling in the world. Obviously, I didn’t have a freshman season because of Corona so we didn’t have a chance, and then coming up short last year. . . I think we’re ready,” said junior pitcher Camryn MacKay.

Coach Andrea Poffenberger said, “I am most proud of there hard work and dedication, not only throughout the season but outside of practice. I am also proud of the way they have come together during the season.”

The varsity softball team consists of Kyleigh Hull, Camryn MacKay, Delaney Ridgell, Kelli Durbin, Devyn McFarland, Emily Ausherman, Kendra Butler, Leo Cline, Alexis Hardy, Johanna Ryan, Katie Healy, Gracie Wilson, Amanda Kinsey, Claire Thomas and Michaela Galick.

Coach Poffenberger said, “There is no magic in my coaching. You win some and you lose some. I try to help the kids keep things in perspective throughout the season and give them rest and time.”

For more softball coverage, read John Cannon’s article, “Wide awake, dreaming: Late night for seniors doesn’t hinder Lancers, who move one win from title.”