Walker Valley Wins First State Softball Championship with Thrilling Extra-Inning Victory

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Walker Valley High School’s softball team celebrated a historic moment on Friday, winning their first TSSAA Class 4A state championship. The Lady Mustangs secured the title by defeating Green Hill 10-8 in a thrilling extra-inning match at Middle Tennessee State University.

Walker Valley took an early lead, scoring four runs in the top of the first inning. The momentum shifted as Green Hill clawed back, with junior Avary Stockwell hitting a two-run homer in the fifth inning, narrowing the gap to 5-4.

In a dramatic turn, Green Hill took their first lead in the sixth inning, scoring two runs to go ahead 7-5. But the Lady Mustangs proved resilient. With three outs left, Nessa Byers delivered a clutch two-run single to tie the game at seven, forcing extra innings.

In the eighth inning, Walker Valley surged ahead, powered by three runs. Karly Blackwell made a spectacular catch in center field, securing the Lady Mustangs’ victory and underscoring the team’s strong defensive performance.

“I knew Karly had it no matter what,” said Ryann Presswood, a senior pitcher. “For her to make the final catch was really special. This championship means everything for us seniors.”

Walker Valley’s journey to this state title marks a significant achievement, as it was their fifth trip to the state tournament, with previous runner-up finishes in 2005 and 2018.

The Lady Mustangs finished their season with an impressive 36-8 record, showcasing a powerful offense that scored 34 runs during the state tournament. Freshman Byers led with four RBIs in the championship game, showing her potential as a rising star.

Head coach Lauren Limburg expressed her pride in her team’s dedication and hard work throughout the season. “This group really made it a point to say a state championship was their goal. They believed it throughout the entire season. I am just so proud of them,” Limburg said.

As they celebrate this historic victory, the Lady Mustangs have etched their names in the record books, leaving a lasting legacy for future teams to aspire to.