Misenheimer, N.C. - North Carolina Wesleyan softball saw its memorable 2026 season come to a close on Friday afternoon in the USA South Conference Championship Series, falling 6-4 to Pfeiffer in game two at Jack Ingram Field.
Although the Battling Bishops came up just short of a conference title, the program showcased the resilience, fight, and determination that defined the season from start to finish. Wesleyan battled throughout the afternoon against a nationally-ranked Pfeiffer squad, refusing to back down and nearly completing an impressive comeback in the later innings.
Pfeiffer jumped out to an early lead with two runs in the first inning and added single runs in the second and third to take a 4-0 advantage. Despite the early deficit, the Bishops continued to compete and found life offensively in the fourth inning when Kyiah Simmons launched a two-run home run to right field, scoring Brooke Markiewicz and cutting the deficit in half.
The momentum continued in the fifth as Ramzie Bryant crushed a solo home run to left field to bring Wesleyan within one run at 4-3. After Pfeiffer added another run in the sixth inning, the Bishops answered immediately in the bottom half when Brooke Markiewicz delivered a solo home run of her own to once again pull Wesleyan within striking distance at 5-4.
Pfeiffer added an insurance run in the seventh, but the Battling Bishops continued to battle until the final out. Kendall Wallace singled in the bottom of the seventh to bring the tying run to the plate, but Pfeiffer was able to hold on and secure the series victory.
Offensively, Wesleyan totaled six hits in the contest, with Markiewicz finishing with two runs scored, a home run, and an RBI. Kyiah Simmons added the two-run homer, while Bryant also homered in the loss. Ragan Holloman, Savannah Bain, and Kendall Wallace each recorded hits as well.
In the circle, Ava Strickland went the distance for the Bishops, battling through seven innings against one of the top offenses in the conference.
While the season ended one win shy of a conference championship, the 2026 Battling Bishops put together an outstanding year filled with memorable moments, resilience, and postseason success. Wesleyan fought its way through the USA South Conference Tournament, including an unforgettable extra-inning victory over Meredith to advance to the championship series, and continued to represent North Carolina Wesleyan University with pride throughout the season.
The senior class leaves behind a lasting impact on the program both on and off the field. Their leadership, dedication, and commitment helped shape the culture of Battling Bishop softball, and their efforts will not be forgotten. From the countless wins and postseason runs to the relationships built within the program, this group represented NC Wesleyan the right way every time they stepped onto the field. Their passion, toughness, and love for the game will be deeply missed, and their legacy will continue to be felt throughout the program for years to come.
