Northeast Ohio softball teams face new division challenges

Spring has arrived in Northeast Ohio, bringing the excitement of high school softball. This year marks a big change for the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) as teams move from four divisions to seven. Several teams in the Cleveland area are ready to showcase their talent after strong performances last season. Walsh Jesuit tops the preseason rankings. They finished last year with a record of 22 wins and only 1 loss. Although they lost key players to graduation, they still have talented athletes, including senior catcher Caleigh Shaulis and senior McKayla McGee. Aurora comes in second. They had an impressive record of 24 wins and 2 losses last season. Though they lost standout player McKennah Metzger to college, returning players include catcher Sophie Schechterman, who earned All-Ohio honors. Amherst is ranked third. They ended last season with a record of 20-8 and faced tough competition. A strong lineup returns, including junior shortstop Makenna Dorobek and sophomore pitcher Karina Shuster. Riverside follows in fourth place. They also have a solid team returning with eight starters, including junior pitcher Clara Granchi, who had a successful season last year. North Ridgeville and Brecksville-Broadview Heights round out the top six spots. North Ridgeville returns its standout pitcher, Naomi Bottomlee, while Brecksville-Broadview Heights will look to fill the gap left by graduated ace Anna Wise. Tallmadge, the 2023 state champions, fell to eighth place this year after moving to Division III. Keystone, Elyria Catholic, and Chardon follow closely, each with returning talents poised to make an impact. Team rosters are filled with players who shined last season. As the season progresses, many teams will look to build on their successes and push for playoff positions in the newly structured divisions.