Virginia State Falls to Winston-Salem State in the CIAA Tournament 

Orangeburg, SC - The Virginia State University softball team faced a tough test on Friday morning, dropping an 8–0 decision to visiting Winston-Salem State University in a Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) showdown. Despite showing moments of promise both offensively and defensively, the Trojans were unable to hold off a steady and disciplined Rams lineup.

VSU opened strong, retiring the Rams with a three-out sequence in the top of the first inning. The defense remained active and alert throughout much of the game, but WSSU's speed and small-ball strategy applied pressure early and often. A pair of runs off a wild pitch and well-executed bunts allowed the Rams to jump ahead in the second inning.

The Trojans found themselves in scoring position on multiple occasions but struggled to push runs across. In the second inning, Virginia State picked up back-to-back singles but couldn't convert. Their best opportunity came in the fifth inning when they loaded the bases with one out, but the Rams turned a key defensive play at home plate and ended the inning without damage.Virginia State recorded six hits in the game but left seven runners stranded, highlighting a key area for growth moving forward.

Chloe Garland was the standout performer for Virginia State, going 3-for-4 with consistent contact and smart base running. Her performance was a bright spot in an otherwise quiet outing for the team. Nia Hall and Alaijah Pratt also contributed with a hit each, adding to the team's efforts at the plate. The Trojans committed no errors defensively, a testament to their continued improvement in the field.

Leading 4–0 heading into the 7th inning, Winston-Salem State erupted for four additional runs, utilizing a mix of bunts, fielder's choices, and well-placed singles. Virginia State was unable to respond in the bottom half, with their final three batters retired in quick succession.

Despite the loss, there were signs of growth for Virginia State. The team displayed discipline at the plate and composure under pressure, even if the final result did not reflect their efforts.


Thank you to the seniors the class of 2025: Alaijah Pratt, Hailey Darrington, Maisie Goodwin, Nia Hall, Chole Garland, Jaya Diggs-Hagwood, and Makailah Harmon for all your contributions to the Virginia State University Softball Team.