How MHSAA softball teams have found success in new classifications during 2026

The MHSAA announced its new reclassifications in the fall of 2024, which saw schools shift in classes based on student population for the 2025-27 school years.

As Mississippi high school softball teams begin their first season in the new classes, several teams have outperformed with the change.

The Clarion Ledger reviewed six teams that have not let a new scenery change the outcome of their season.

Caledonia

Record: 14-2, Old Class: 4A, New Class: 5A

Until a March loss to New Hope, Caledonia had not dropped a game to an in-state team. The Cavaliers have been dominant in the circle, allowing only nine earned runs all year and posting a 1.07 team ERA; the most runs they’ve given up in a game this year is seven.

Myrtle

Record: 14-6, Old Class: 1A, New Class: 2A

Myrtle would like the chance to avenge its 1A title-game loss to Stringer in 2025, and will have to do so in 2A. The Hawks have put up 154 runs as a team, with help from Ally Murphy and Mary Ella Mayer. Myrtle has taken down two 7A teams in Oxford and West Harrison this year while aiming for its third straight 20-win season.

Northeast Jones

Record: 19-4, Old Class: 4A, New Class: 5A

The Lady Tigers have settled well in their new classification. Northeast Jones looks for its first 20-win season in decades, while being led by senior Caroline Myrick at the plate and in the circle. Northeast Jones has had nine games in which it has scored 10 or more runs and has not allowed more than nine runs in a game.

Pisgah

Record: 10-6, Old Class: 2A, New Class: 3A

Pisgah has appeared in the 2A title game in consecutive years, falling to East Union both times. Now out of 2A and into 3A, the Lady Dragons aim for a third trip to a championship game. Sophomore Alyssa McMurtrey and senior Hallie McCurdy have led Pisgah at the plate with a team batting average of .334 and 90 RBIs.

Purvis

Record: 10-4, Old Class: 4A, New Class: 5A

In the 2025 season, Purvis fell in the 4A title game to Itawamba Agricultural. Now the Tornadoes have a new chance and a new look at a championship in 5A. Senior Brooxie Shepherd has a .600 batting average, leading Purvis, and hopes to lead the Tornadoes to a third straight 20-win season.

Sumrall

Record: 17-3, Old Class: 4A, New Class: 5A

After moving up to 5A, Sumrall has taken charge as one of the best teams in the class. The Lady Bobcats are led by senior Ella Robertson and junior Kynnedy Lumpkins, who are hitting above .500 with a combined 16 home runs. Sumrall’s only losses have come from 7A teams, and is outscoring opponents 257-75 this season.

Michael Chavez covers high school sports, among others, for the Clarion Ledger. Email him at mchavez@gannett.com or reach out to him on X, formerly Twitter @MikeSChavez.