The Recorder on June 04, 2026
RINER — A program in its first season since 2012 — against an established state power.
The result, shortened by weather, was predictable here last Wednesday.
Auburn, state champions in three of the past five seasons, scored eight runs in the home half of the first inning, and after storms delayed and eventually suspended play, the Eagles were credited with an 8-0 win over Highland in the first round of the Class 1, Region C softball tournament.
“We had SOL testing the next day,” said Rams coach Jeff Wood. “The girls voted not to go back.”
Auburn, which was 22-1 on the season entering Wednesday’s regional final game against George Wythe, had five hits in the opening inning and was helped by five Highland errors.
Kaylen Mitcham, Ariel Mullins, Leah Wimmer and Faith Wilson all had RBI hits for the winners and Skyler Hodges recorded the mound victory, striking out the side in the top of the first.
Ram senior Sarah Liller took the loss, with only three of the Eagles’ eight runs being earned.
The defeat ended a 6-12 season for Highland.
The game shouldn’t define the Rams return to varsity softball, which included a Pioneer District first-round victory over Bath County that earned the team a berth in the regionals.
“Our goal at the first practice was to win a few games and we were excited to play in a district tournament,” said Wood. “I never imagined finishing in a three-way tie for second place (in the Pioneer District) and winning a tournament game to advance to regionals.
“The girls worked hard at practice and it showed,” he added. “Just super proud of them and how our season went.”