As spring break comes to an end and schools across South Carolina return to the classroom, SCISA (South Carolina Independent School Association) softball teams are shifting into high gear. With playoffs just around the corner, teams across all four classes are battling to secure their spots and keep their championship dreams alive. Fans are watching closely to see which teams will rise, who will surprise, and whether the 2024 champions can hold on to their crowns.
Can the 2024 Champions Defend Their Titles?
The big question this season is whether the defending champions can repeat their success in 2025. Laurence Manning (4A), Pee Dee Academy (3A), Clarendon Hall (2A), and Jefferson Davis Academy (1A) were last year’s winners. All eyes are now on them to see if they can hold their ground with strong rosters and consistent performance.
At the same time, teams like Hammond (4A), Orangeburg Prep (3A), Colleton Prep (2A), and Cross Schools (1A) are hungry to reclaim the top spot after making deep runs last year.
Top Contenders by Classification
Class 4A Contenders
The 4A competition is intense this year. Laurence Manning is leading with a strong 14-2 record. They’re followed by First Baptist (5-1), Augusta Christian (6-4), and Hammond (6-3). These teams are showing strong chemistry and power at the plate, making the playoff race tight.
Class 3A Contenders
Pee Dee Academy remains a major force with an impressive 13-1 record. But they face tough competition from Dillon Christian (12-4), Calhoun Academy (8-0), Orangeburg Prep (8-5), and Clarendon Hall (5-2). With such strong teams in the mix, this class could offer the most exciting matchups.
Class 2A Contenders
In 2A, Dorchester Academy is leading the charge at 9-1, followed by Carolina Academy (4-1), Marlboro Academy (6-5), and King’s Academy (3-2). This group has shown good depth, and any team could take the top spot with a strong finish.
Class 1A Contenders
W.W. King Academy is the team to beat at 6-0. They’re chased by Holly Hill Academy (8-2), Cross Schools (7-4), Richard Winn Academy (4-5), and Jefferson Davis Academy (4-6). The 1A field is close, and every game will count heading into the final weeks.
Standout Offensive Players of 2025
Class 4A Stars
Bailey Brown of Augusta Christian is the top hitter with a blazing .778 average. Her teammates Mckenzie Krebs (.556), Claire Hamm (.500), and Avery Schwarz (.500) are also putting up big numbers. Laurence Manning’s Lyra Pricklemeyer (.500), Laini Kosinski (.479), and Marlee Black (.479) are helping drive their team’s success. Ava Miller of Hammond (.476) and the Heathcott sisters from John Paul II (.462) round out the list of top 4A bats.
Class 3A Sluggers
Orangeburg Prep’s Prestan Schurlknight leads with a .750 average. Calhoun Academy’s Anslea Aaron (.667) and Coker Carson (.619) have been key to their undefeated run. Mandy Wells (.571) and Maggie Harrington (.500) of Clarendon Hall and several others are also stepping up in major ways this season.
Class 2A and 1A Heavy Hitters
Madelyn Roscoe (Marlboro Academy) and Ryan Mayers (Cross Schools) are both batting .667. Cross Schools’ lineup is packed with talent, including Alaysia Hollings (.629) and Sydney Hollings (.516). Dorchester Academy’s Emery McClure (.543) and Lee Academy’s Ansley Nesbit (.553) are other names to watch.
The Road Ahead
With just a few weeks left in the regular season, every game now carries more weight. Whether it’s powerhouse teams trying to stay on top or rising underdogs aiming to surprise the field, the road to the playoffs is filled with excitement. Star players are delivering big performances, and the standings are shifting week by week.
SCISA softball in 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive seasons yet, with tight races in every class. As the playoffs draw closer, expect the action to intensify and the spotlight to shine even brighter on these talented student-athletes.
