CHARLESTON – The 2026 WVSSAC state softball tournament continues this week as the Class AAA and AAAA teams make their way to Little Creek Park in South Charleston for three days of intense competition.
Both Morgantown and University High have advanced through the North Region of Class AAAA and earned a spot in the bracket.
University will serve as the 2-seed in the tournament and will battle No. 7 Washington on Tuesday evening in Game 4.
The Hawks defeated the Patriots 8-0 and 7-0 in two contests this season and last captured the state championship in 2024.
“Our experience is a huge advantage,” UHS head coach Mindy Parks said. “This group has been to the state tournament three years in a row, so the moment isn’t too big for them. Our seniors have provided great leadership, and our younger players have learned what it takes to compete in big games. Most importantly, they trust one another and believe in the work they’ve done throughout the season.”
UHS pitching senior duo Maddie Campbell and Sophia Lehosit have combined for a 24-5 record this season.
UHS is also dangerous offensively throughout the lineup. Seven players boast a batting average of .350 or higher, led by Campbell at .500. Five of those players have totaled over 30 hits as well, with Campbell totaling 54 entering the week.
“Our success starts with playing the game we have all season,” Parks said. “We have two outstanding pitchers, an experienced catcher, strong defense behind that, and a confident lineup at the plate.”
The fourth-seeded Mohigans are making their first-ever appearance in the state softball tournament and will battle No. 5 Hurricane on Tuesday morning in Game 2.
“Most of these girls have played together since they were young,” MHS head coach Lorri Lipscomb said. “They have played in big games together and won championships together before. We aren’t going to get caught up in the hype of the tournament and focus on the goals that we have set for ourselves.”
MHS is led by senior Robert Morris signee Maddie Wisman, who is batting at a .481 average with 39 hits and 23 RBI, including four home runs.
She also leads MHS in pitching with an 18-5 record and 155 innings pitched. She’s totaled 253 strikeouts and only 49 walks.
“Our strength is our pitchers’ ability to control the zone and the defense playing behind them,” Lipscomb said. “We need to continue to play at the level that got us here.”
Day one of the 2026 WVSSAC state softball tournament will begin at 9 a.m. on Tuesday morning from Little Creek Park in South Charleston.
