FDTC Softball ends strong season with player honors and a Coach of the Year Award
The Florence-Darlington Technical College softball team put together one of the most accomplished seasons in program history, combining offensive firepower, speed on the bases, and standout individual performances to rewrite the record book throughout the 2026 campaign.
The Lady Stingers finished the season with a 31–21 record and remained competitive throughout the year against a challenging schedule. Florence-Darlington showcased one of the most explosive offenses in the region, breaking multiple program records as a team while earning several postseason honors along the way.
Leading the program's success was head coach Madison Ragan, who was named Region 10 Coach of the Year after guiding the Lady Stingers through a historic season filled with milestones and achievements.
On offense, the Lady Stingers established new program standards in several categories. The team set a new single season record with 537 hits, surpassing the previous mark of 446. Florence-Darlington also broke the school record for stolen bases with 171, eclipsing the former record of 107, while the team's 41 home runs set another new benchmark, topping the previous record of 38.
Leading the charge was a talented core of players who consistently delivered throughout the season. Hayleigh Atkinson cemented herself as one of the top hitters in program history, setting new single-season and career records in both hits and RBIs. Atkinson finished the year with 79 hits and 67 RBIs, while also establishing new career marks with 141 hits and 113 RBIs. Her consistency at the plate made her one of the most dangerous hitters in the lineup all season long.
Keira Bell emerged as one of the team's most dynamic all-around players. Bell set a new single season stolen base record with 53, surpassing the previous record of 45. In addition to her production offensively, Bell was a major contributor in the circle and earned First Team All-Region honors as a utility player for her impact on both sides of the game.
Payton Melinauskas also delivered a historic season, tying Kayla Wright's single-season home run record from 2012–13 with 14 home runs. Her power at the plate gave the Lady Stingers a consistent middle-of-the-order presence and helped fuel the team's record-setting offensive numbers.
Florence-Darlington's success was reflected in the postseason awards as well. The Lady Stingers placed four players on the All-Region First Team, including outfielders Payton Melinauskas and Hayleigh Atkinson, infielder Mandy Wells, and utility player Keira Bell. Makayla Huggins and Olivia Goforth earned Second Team All-Region honors for their strong performances throughout the season.
Several Lady Stingers were also recognized for their postseason performances by being named to the All-Tournament Team. Mandy Wells, Keira Bell, Olivia Goforth, and Hayleigh Atkinson each earned selections after helping lead Florence-Darlington during tournament play.
In the circle, Abby Quick played a critical role in the Lady Stingers' success. Quick delivered several standout performances throughout the season and gave Florence-Darlington stability and competitiveness against some of the top teams on the schedule.
From record-breaking offensive numbers to multiple postseason honors, the 2026 season marked another important step forward for Florence-Darlington softball. The Lady Stingers not only produced one of the best statistical seasons in program history but also established a foundation that will continue to build momentum for the future of the program.