The postseason is officially in full swing, and New Jersey and Lower Bucks County softball squads are already making headlines. With strong pitching, clutch hitting, and a few nail-biters, the first rounds of the PIAA and Central Jersey state tournaments delivered everything local fans could hope for — and then some. Let’s break down the action from across the region as teams fight to keep their championship dreams alive.
Council Rock South Dominates Behind Waring’s Arm
Council Rock South 4, Easton Area 1
In a game that showcased sheer dominance from the circle, Council Rock South ace Lexi Waring threw a one-hitter to lead the Hawks past Easton Area in the first round of the PIAA Class 6A playoffs. Waring, who was electric during last year’s state tournament, picked up right where she left off, striking out nine and carrying a no-hitter into the seventh inning before Easton managed a solo homer.
Julia Scannapico provided timely offense, driving in two runs, while Paige Brady added a key sac fly to tack on another. With the 4-1 victory, Rock South improves to 20-5 on the season and now sets its sights on a rematch with Perkiomen Valley, the team that edged them in the District 1 third-place game last week.
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Bristol Cruises in 2A Blowout
Bristol 15, Philadelphia Academy Charter 0
Bristol wasted no time making a statement in the PIAA Class 2A bracket, demolishing Philadelphia Academy Charter in just two innings. Brianna Slack was lights-out, tossing a one-hitter with six strikeouts while also contributing at the plate with two hits, including a double.
She wasn’t alone — Victoria Wilkos, Cayleigh Januszka, and Peyton McClain each had multi-hit games in the 15-0 rout. Bristol’s powerful offense looks ready for a deep run as they advance in dominant fashion with a 17-1 record.
Conwell-Egan Falls Short in 4A Shootout
North Schuylkill 16, Conwell-Egan 13
Sometimes, even 14 hits aren’t enough. In a wild back-and-forth contest, Conwell-Egan came up just short in its Class 4A opener, falling 16-13 to North Schuylkill. Despite the loss, Avery Kenworthy and Angelina Pandolfi each tallied three hits, and Cecilia McBeth crushed a home run.
The Eagles left it all on the field, but their high-powered offense wasn’t quite enough to overcome a relentless North Schuylkill lineup. A tough end to what was otherwise a promising season for the squad.
Central Jersey Group 1: New Egypt Rolls, Florence Bows Out
New Egypt 12, Shore Regional 1
New Egypt came ready to play in the Central Jersey Group 1 playoffs, riding a solid all-around performance to a convincing 12-1 win over Shore Regional. Pitcher Jackie Bowen kept things under control with a seven-hitter, while Megan Miller blasted a home run and picked up two hits.
New Egypt’s offense was spread out and relentless, with strong games from Caroline Davis, Olivia Stillwell, Sam Potts, Keira Simicsak, and Elizabeth Potts. Now sitting at 16-9, the Warriors will head to face top-seeded Roselle Park in a highly anticipated quarterfinal matchup on Wednesday.
Bound Brook 11, Florence 1
Florence saw its season come to a close at the hands of Bound Brook. Despite a solid effort and a few bright moments at the plate, the Flashes fell 11-1, finishing their season with a 7-12 record. Bound Brook, now 15-11, moves on in the CJ Group 1 bracket.
Looking Ahead: More Playoff Action to Come
The opening rounds have set the tone for an exciting postseason in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Teams like Council Rock South, Bristol, and New Egypt are building momentum, while others will regroup and look ahead to next year.
Whether you’re following every pitch or just tuning in for the big moments, there’s no shortage of drama, talent, and passion on the diamond this time of year.
👉 Be sure to check our High School Sports hub for full coverage, game recaps, interviews, and upcoming playoff previews. From championship hopefuls to breakout stars, Explore New Jersey is your go-to source for local high school sports.
Stay tuned — the road to the state finals is just getting started!