Columbus East High School

Whiteland, IN - The 2026 season came to a close Tuesday evening for the Columbus East Olympians softball team as they battled East Central in the opening round of the IHSAA Softball Sectional hosted by Whiteland High School. The Olympians showed fight throughout the night, collecting nine hits and continuing to pressure the defense before ultimately falling 9-4. Columbus East came out aggressive offensively in the opening inning. Lola Watkins started the game with a leadoff single and later stole second base to move into scoring position. Baleigh Fish followed with a sharp single, while Thaise Jessup and Taylor Wessel helped keep the inning alive as the Olympians pushed across the first run of the game for an early 1-0 lead. Watkins continued to fuel the Olympian offense all evening, turning in a perfect 4-for-4 performance at the plate while also swiping two bases. Fish finished 2-for-4 with an RBI, and Jessup added a pair of hits, including an RBI single in the fourth inning. Jacque Boroughs drove in a run, while Mackenzie Hampton chipped in a hit and a walk during the game. The Olympians threatened again in the second inning as Watkins lined another single to center field and advanced into scoring position after stealing second. Jessup later worked a walk to put two runners aboard, but Columbus East was unable to capitalize. Columbus East mounted its biggest rally in the fourth inning. Hampton opened the frame with a single before Ladaishia Logan moved the runners with a productive ground out. Watkins then reached again with a bunt single, and Jessup followed with a hard-hit RBI single to left field that brought home courtesy runner Shelby Williams. Another run scored moments later on a wild pitch as the Olympians cut into the deficit. The Olympians continued battling in the sixth inning. Hampton drew a walk to get things started before Watkins delivered her fourth hit of the night. Jessup then dropped down a bunt single to load the bases, setting up Fish for an RBI single that plated courtesy runner Gretchen Cobler and trimmed the margin once again. In the circle, Fish worked four innings and struck out four batters, while Boroughs came on in relief and struck out three over the final two innings. Even with the disappointing result, the Olympians closed the season continuing to compete until the final out while showing the "never quit" effort that defined the program throughout the spring. Columbus East would also like to thank the senior members of the softball program for their leadership, dedication, and commitment to Olympian softball. While their high school careers have come to an end, their impact on the program will continue to be remembered. The Olympian community wishes them the very best in their future endeavors.