Carola Named Region 10 Player of the Year, Earns Two First Team Honors; Softball Places Eight on All-Region Team
MARTINSVILLE, VA — The Patrick & Henry Community College softball team earned major recognition from Region 10, placing eight student-athletes on the 2026 Division III All-Region Team, highlighted by sophomore standout Lily Carola, who was named Region 10 Player of the Year and earned First Team honors at both pitcher and designated player.
Carola led a Patriot team that turned in one of the most complete seasons in Region 10, finishing 30-16 overall while ranking among the conference's top offensive teams. Patrick & Henry posted a .306 team batting average, scored 270 runs, and totaled 20 home runs across 46 games.
A true two-way standout, Carola anchored the Patriots both in the circle and at the plate. She helped lead a pitching staff that posted a 2.33 team ERA (Top 10 in Region 10) and 12 shutouts (2nd in the region), while earning multiple NJCAA Division III Pitcher of the Week honors during the season. Her performance consistently placed her among the region's top pitchers and solidified her as one of the premier players in NJCAA Division III.
Joining Carola on the All-Region First Team were Kylie Cooper (INF) and Hannah Haynes (INF), along with McKenzie Cobb (OF) and Sierra Custer (C), who helped power a lineup that ranked among the region's most productive.
Patrick & Henry also placed four on the Second Team, including Morgan McCrary (OF) and Haley Goode (C), along with pitchers Aris Smith (P) and Trinity Custer (P).
The Patriots' eight All-Region selections highlight the depth, balance, and consistency of a roster that produced across every position group during the 2026 season.
This year's success continues a dominant run for the program, which captured the 2024 NJCAA Division III National Championship and finished as the 2025 National Runner-Up, firmly establishing Patrick & Henry as one of the premier programs in NJCAA Division III.
Head Coach Robbi Campbell praised the group's effort and growth.
"I'm incredibly proud of this group and what they've accomplished. These honors are a reflection of the work they've put in every day and the standard they've built within our program."
Patrick & Henry will open Region 10 Division III Tournament play on Friday at Fisher River Park in Dobson, N.C. The Patriots are scheduled to face Surry Community College at 11:00 a.m., followed by a matchup with Caldwell Community College later in the day. Tournament times are subject to change based on game results and weather.
For full team statistics, schedule updates, and tournament coverage, visit phccsports.com.