Can Northwestern reach the state championship game?

The Tigers have made it to the PIAA semifinals three straight seasons and with seven returning starters, hope to finally get to the finals.

A number of area teams are also eyeing regular season success, which will get them to the postseason in hopes of eventually getting medals draped around their necks.

Below are preview capsules of all 10 Times News area softball squads:

JIM THORPE

Head coach: Kathy Levins

Last year’s record: 2-19

Key players lost: Mara Levins, Kaitlin Costello, Bella Lloyd, Madison Lordi.

Returning starters/letterwinners: Hannah Zacarias (Sr., OF/1B/C), Madison Schwartz (Jr., P/utility), Isabella Sully (Jr., C/IF), Gloria Strohl (So., P/1B), Ryah Confer (OF/C), Juliana Frantz (So., IF).

Other to watch: Kylie Sullivan (Fr., IF), Jocelyn Montefour (Fr., IF/OF), Olivia Holland (Fr., OF), Kelsie Huff (Jr., P/OF).

Strengths: Thorpe has a good cohesive group of players on the squad. They work well together. Versatility will be the key to the Olympians’ success this season. JT has multiple players that can play multiple positions.

Weaknesses: The Thorpe players need to play with more confidence both at the plate and on defense. Cutting down on defensive errors will be a big goal for the Olympians this season.

Outlook: Obviously, we’re looking to come up with more wins than we had last season. We haven’t had a winning program here historically, so we’re really trying to build towards that. We setup a junior high program and that is going well. I think our future looks promising.” — Jim Thorpe coach Kathy Levins.

LEHIGHTON

Head coach: Ed Ziegenfuss - 1st season

Last year’s record: 5-14

Key players lost: Aliyah Nothstein, Makenna Snyder, Eryn Mertz, Makayla Scott.

Returning starters/returning letterwinners: Morgan Myers (Sr.), Peyton Hausman (Sr.), Ava Trach (Jr.), Brynn Mriss (Jr.), Sophia Wise (Soph.), Amber Yeakel (Soph.).

Others to watch: n/a

Strengths: The attitude to work hard and willingness to learn has been excellent. The Indians also return a number of players who saw significant playing time a year ago.

Outlook: “We are instilling a new mentality, learning to compete in everything we do. Focusing on fundamental but aggressive softball. We want to make being in league and district playoffs an expectation.” — Lehighton head coach Ed Ziegenfuss

MARIAN

Head coach: Lindsey Reinoehl - 2nd season

Last year’s record: 10-9

Key players lost: Danica Krolick (1B), Zoe Katona (OF/IF).

Returning starters/letterwinners: Deanna Pugh (Jr., 2B), Malina Letcher (Sr., P/SS/3B), Hailey Treskolasky (C), Kayla Birrer (P/IF), Emily Upanavage (P/OF).

Others to watch: Gracie Sendatch (OF), Katie Knock (Fr., IF/OF), Kiki Wolfgang (IF/OF).

Strengths: The Fillies are coming off a better-than-expected 2025 season. Under first-year manager Lindsey Reinoehl, the team looked to solidify its pitching, a key component to success in softball. Marian returns six starters, led by speedy Deanna Pugh, who batted .516 with 35 runs and 25 RBIs. She is an outstanding second baseman who is versatile, a heady player, and earned all-state honors. Third baseman Malina Letcher is also a key piece with her ability to play multiple positions. Letcher hit .545 with four home runs and 35 RBIs, and can contribute at third base, shortstop and in the circle. Behind the plate, Hailey Treskolasky provides stability, hitting .450 with four home runs and 29 RBIs last season.

Weaknesses: There are not many holes to fill this season, but Marian must replace three positions in the field, with preseason focus on the outfield. The team lacks speed in certain areas, but looks to compensate by putting players in the right positions. Handling pressure in big-game situations will be important. Depth could also be a concern, with two freshmen listed on the varsity roster.

Outlook: “I like the fact that we only lost two starters from last year and our freshmen have a lot of potential, so it is an exciting time for us here at Marian. Our biggest issue last year was the players getting used to our style. We lost two starters (first base, outfielder), but we do have some players who seem to be willing to play different positions. One thing that our coaching staff has seen and myself, our players are so passionate about the game of softball. Even our players who came over from the basketball team, their willingness to step up and help make us a more complete team — that is so very evident every day at practice. We’ve got to jump on teams earlier. We can’t wait until the second time at bat; that’s our goal and focus so far. Our schedule has us playing Tri-Valley, Minersville, Schuylkill Haven, Williams Valley twice this year. Those are some outstanding programs. That’s our challenge right now to compete against those teams. If we do that, we will be okay.” — Marian coach Lindsey Reinoehl.

NORTHERN LEHIGH

Head coach: Daniel Caruso

Last year’s record: 11-9

Key players lost: Marissa Mahrer, Peyton Hoffman, Grace Bauer, Skeylar Horack

Returning starters/letterwinners: Kylee Snyder, Addie Smith, Tegan Simms, Emily Gad, Aubrey Reinhard, Fiona Jones, Kenzie Chrusical, Anna Douglass, Audri Wertman, Savannah Kast.

Others to watch: Jaycie Longenbach

Strengths: The Dawgs’ main strengths will be pitching and defense this season. Catching will be another major strength.

Outlook: “The foundation of this team will be built on dominant pitching, great catching, experienced juniors, and reliable defense. Kylee Snyder, the team’s senior captain will be instrumental in leading these ladies this year. Kylee is the anchor in center field and one of the best hitters on the team. Aubrey Reinhard will anchor third base, she works hard and I can’t wait to see what she does with this position this season. This year’s junior class will be the heartbeat of the roster. With multiple seasons of varsity experience, this group understands the expectations and brings both skill and maturity to the field. The juniors provide strength up the middle, stability in key defensive positions, and production throughout the lineup. I cannot say enough about Tegan Simms, one of the best pure athletes that I have ever seen. She hits in the four hole and is invaluable at shortstop. I would watch Fiona Jones this season, she works very hard in practice, and her hitting has come a long way, and she is being recruited by the University of Lynchburg ... In addition to pitching, Addie Smith has been working hard developing her skills at first base, which gives the team much more flexibility than in prior years ... Behind the plate, the team features Emily Gad who understands the game and can manage it well, and I would argue the best catcher in the district.” — Northern Lehigh coach Daniel Caruso

NORTHWESTERN

Head coach: Kate Farber - 3rd season

Last year’s record: 26-3

Key players lost: Shelby Mitman, Rylee McGinley

Returning starters/letterwinners: Ainsley Behler, Samantha Boyer, Ella Bressi, Natalie Conner, Lizzie Diehl, Abby Dunstan, Emma Freeman

Others to watch: Emily Diehl, Molly Schlofer, Avery Seyler

Strengths: The fact that seven of the nine starters from last year’s team return for 2026 should have opponents very wary of facing Northwestern. The battery of Emma Freeman and Abby Dunstan is the best in the Colonial League. Freeman posted just a 1.07 ERA last season with 212 strikeouts in 151 innings of work, while Lizzie Diehl pitched 16 innings with 23 strikeouts and a 0.44 ERA. If teams do find a way to put up runs, the Northwestern offense, led by Dunstan (11 HR, 47 RBIs, .511 AVG, 1.599 OPS) can put up runs in bunches. Sophomore Natalie Conner stepped in as a freshman last season and finished second only to Dunstan in home runs (3), RBIs (36), and average (.478). With a team ERA of 1.07 and a team batting average of .362, it’s all a strength.

Weaknesses: The six seniors on this year’s team have reached the PIAA semifinals in each of their high school seasons. While that has put them on a mission to bring home a state championship this year, does it also put pressure on them? The players are a tough group and have handled the pressure in the past seasons and should be able to handle it again in 2026.

Outlook: “We have a core group of six seniors who have been playing together for a really long time. They’re great leaders, very confident, very poised and also very hungry to win. With that combination and then juniors and sophomores that have already gained experience and some freshmen that we have, it’s a good mix,” said coach Kate Farber. “Our girls have talked about not reaching the finals in states and I think they realize how hard that is and that what they have accomplished is phenomenal. Their determination not just to get back there, but to get even further is amazing.” — Northwestern coach Kate Farber

PALMERTON

Head coach: Bob Hock - 13th season

Last year’s record: 9-11

Key players lost: Mikayla Pengelly (OF), Hailey Delgado (C), Leah Prutzman (1B).

Returning starters/letterwinners: Hailey Barry (Sr., P/SS, 97 career hits), Tessa Sander (Sr., 3B/SS/P/OF), Grace Schneider (Sr., 2B/C), Mackenzie Ferber (Sr., OF), Molly Binder (Jr., DH/1B), Morgan Wayda (Jr., OF/Utility), Sam Wolfe (So., P/SS/Utility), Olivia Kalman (So., 1B/P), McKayla Coombs (So., OF).

Others to watch: Hailey George (Fr., P/OF/2B), Kyla Trumbore (Fr., C/3B/1B), Jaylin Strohl (Fr., 3B/1B/Utility), Aylexia Gulla (Fr., OF/P/Utility), Peyton Graver (Fr., SS/OF/Utility), Leanna Sanchez (Fr., OF/Utility).

Strengths: Palmerton has been blessed with senior leaders over the last couple of years, and nothing will change this season thanks to the presence of Hailey Barry, Tessa Sander, Grace Schneider and Mackenzie Ferber returning. With their leadership, and the maturity from the underclassmen surrounding them, the Bombers are primed to make another run at the postseason.

Weaknesses: The Bombers are in somewhat of a rebuilding mode with a number of young players on the varsity roster.

Outlook: “I’m very excited for the upcoming season. I believe the team has all the ingredients for a great season in 2026 and beyond with all of the talent and enthusiasm throughout softball in the Palmerton School District and its youth programs. I expect the Bombers to be competitive in league and district play,” — Palmerton head coach Bob Hock.

PANTHER VALLEY

Head coach: Tara Yuricheck

Returning starters/letterwinners: Caroline Breslin (SR, OF, .255, 13 singles, 12 RBIs), Ava Alabovitz (SR, P/INF, .250, 4 singles, 2 doubles, 1 triple, 4 RBIs), Janessa Prudente (JR, P/SS, .342, 8 singles, 1 double, 3 triples, 1 HR, 13 RBIs), Brooklynn Mika (JR, 3B, .267, 7 singles, 3 doubles, 2 triples, 19 RBIs), Megan O’Brien (JR, INF/OF, .213, 7 singles, 1 double, 1 triple, 15 RBIs), Isabella D’Ancona (SO, 1B/P, .270, 3 singles, 3 doubles, 1 triple, 3 HRs), Paige Goida (SO, P, 26 IP, 27 strikeouts).

Others to watch: Danika Blazosky (SO, OF), Sadie Mae Frets (SO, 2B), Liana Jones (JR, P/1B), Jovie Breiner (FR, C), Savannah Pierce (FR, UT), Kathryn Breslin (FR, OF).

Strengths: A strong returning core with experience across the lineup, including multiple hitters who produced extra-base power and run production. The Panthers also bring versatility defensively and improved depth in the circle, with several pitchers expected to contribute.

Weaknesses: Not specifically identified, though the team will rely on continued development from younger players and consistent execution in key situations.

Outlook: Panther Valley enters the season with a blend of experienced returners and emerging talent. The Panthers expect their veteran group to provide stability both offensively and defensively, setting the tone early with their understanding of the game and composure. Caroline Breslin brings speed to the top of the lineup, while Ava Alabovitz returns healthy and is expected to take on a larger role in the circle. Janessa Prudente adds consistency and versatility, while Isabella D’Ancona and Brooklynn Mika both give the Panthers added power in the middle of the order. In the circle, the focus will be on more consistent pitching that attacks hitters and trusts the defense behind it. Defensively, the emphasis remains on clean, disciplined play, while offensively the goal is to produce quality at-bats with an aggressive but smart approach. With improved depth and flexibility throughout the roster, Panther Valley is aiming for a winning season and a run in the District 11 playoffs.

“Our goal this season is to play with heart and perform with pride. We want to play aggressive, disciplined softball, trust each other in every moment, and make a run in the district playoffs,” said Yuricheck.

PLEASANT VALLEY

Head coach: Michelle Albanese - 2nd season

Last year’s record: 13-9

Key players lost: The Bears lost seven seniors, all of whom were integral aspects of the team. PV will have a lot of work to do with filling new positions this season.

Returning starters/letterwinners: Rylan Kanpp (Jr., SS, hit .338 with 17 RBIs), Maddie Abbatiello (Jr., P/1B, hit .411 with 15 RBIs), Emma DePalma (Jr., OF, hit .310 with 12 RBIs), Lily Hower (Jr., IF).

Others to watch: Mia Battaglino (Fr., C), Emma George (Fr., 3B), Rylee Green (Fr., P/OF).

Strengths: We have a young team and they all work well together, we should have a strong season. “Rylan is a force on the field and she leads the team with confidence,” said Albanese. “Maddie was someone I could fully depend on in our lineup, she is a solid hitter who gets on base consistently. Emma had grown in confidence in the offseason, she will be an asset to our outfield. Lily has such tenacity when on the field and puts it all on the line for every play.”

Weaknesses: The Bears have a young team and are building for the future.

Outlook: “This year we have to adapt to each field, each new pitcher, each situation. If we can do that, we will do good things.” — Pleasant Valley coach Michelle Albanese

TAMAQUA

Head coach: Tony Zancofsky - 3rd season

Last year’s record: 14-6

Key players lost: Kolbe Robb, Leah Crowley, Addison Krall

Returning starters/letterwinners: Mia Bamford, Molly Evans, Sophia Sitlinger, Peyton Faust, Noami Knitter, Nico Conahan, Jalissa Correa, Ceanna Gormley, Abby Whitehead, Paige Bumbulsky, Jasmine Eberts

Others to watch: Sophia Zrinski

Strengths: Zancofsky’s team is young but experienced. Tamaqua also has two quality pitchers to challenge opponents during busy weeks. “Offensively, I think we’ll be OK. Both pitchers are going to keep us in the game,” he noted.

Weaknesses: Some Raiders might be playing a bit out of position, which could be an adjustment defensively. The team also has just 13 players, which could cause depth concerns.

Outlook: “We’re really excited this year. Our goal is just to be very competitive, keep the games close, and hopefully it goes our way 10 times. To make it to the playoffs — that’s definitely our goal. And play the Blue Mountains and the Pine Groves and North Schuylkills as tough as we can. They’ll make us better. — Tamaqua coach Tony Zancofsky

WEATHERLY

Head coach: Will Bartel - 11th season

Last year’s record: 7-13

Key players lost: Rachel Rosenlund (clean-up hitter)

Returning starters: Abby Weston, Olivia Marascho, Abby Binder, Rebecca Caldwell.

Others to watch: Cortney Snyder, Madison Makowiec.

Strengths: Weston will captain the Wreckers. “She’s a four-year starter and an extremely hard worker, and she’s all about learning the little things that make a good softball player. Marascho is versatile and can play 3B, 1B and catcher and she will bat clean-up. Another girl who is able to play multiple positions is Rebecca Caldwell. She can pitch, catch, and patrol centerfield. Binder, who missed all of last season due to an injury, enters her senior year as the Wrecker’s starting pitcher. “She’s got a good fastball and changeup and will automatically make us a better competitive team.” Snyder is projected to start at first base and hit in the middle of the lineup.

Weaknesses: A lack of experience will be a concern as many of the 16 rostered players will be learning on the job. “We won’t have a JV team, so we’re likely to start three freshmen on the varsity looking to improve practice by practice and game by game.”

Outlook: “We will have some growing pains. We will count upon our young players stepping up and learning how to compete at the varsity level from our senior leadership. Our freshmen are eager to get better. We pride ourselves in playing good defense so we hope that will keep us competitively in games until our offense comes around.” — Weatherly coach Will Bartel.