Sold-out crowd enjoys Columbia Midstate Classic game, Lady Vols v. Austin Peay Govs

Kerri Bartlett, The Daily Herald
·2 min read
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University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers triumphed over the Austin Peay State University Lady Governors in the 8th annual softball Midstate Classic at Ridley Sportsplex in Columbia on Wednesday.

Without a cloud in the sky and chilly temps, a crowd of 3,000 watched the home team, or Lady Vols, grab their eighth consecutive win over the visiting team at the annual tournament that precedes the regular South Eastern Conference season schedule.

University of Tennessee Vols Karlyn Pickens (23) winds up for a pitch during the Midstate Classic at Ridley Sports Complex in Columbia, Tenn. on Mar. 15, 2023.
University of Tennessee Vols Karlyn Pickens (23) winds up for a pitch during the Midstate Classic at Ridley Sports Complex in Columbia, Tenn. on Mar. 15, 2023.

"It gets better every year," Columbia City Manager Tony Massey said. Massey has been organizing the game schedule each year since 2014 with UT Lady Vols being the home team each year. The city hosts the Lady Vols, providing the team with lodging and meals during their stay.

"This is a great opportunity for local residents and visitors to see UT play. It's a nationally known brand, and we have lots of alumni in the area."

University of Tennessee Vols Ashley Rogers (14) winds up for the pitch during the Midstate Classic at Ridley Sports Complex in Columbia, Tenn. on Mar. 15, 2023.
University of Tennessee Vols Ashley Rogers (14) winds up for the pitch during the Midstate Classic at Ridley Sports Complex in Columbia, Tenn. on Mar. 15, 2023.

Hundreds of youth girls softball players and fans from around the Southern Middle and Middle Tennessee region awaited the chance to get an autograph from their favorite collegiate players after the game.

"One of the neatest things is watching all of the young softball players and teams show up to watch college athletes play," Massey said. "This might be the only time they get to see a collegiate game. These players are heroes to them."

Tennessee Elite softball team members Brinley Carlton, Shayla Anast and Brylee Rofrano, all 8, hold the signed team poster for the Midstate Classic with the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers facing off against the Austin Peay State University Lady Governors.
Tennessee Elite softball team members Brinley Carlton, Shayla Anast and Brylee Rofrano, all 8, hold the signed team poster for the Midstate Classic with the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers facing off against the Austin Peay State University Lady Governors.

Columbia Central High School played an introductory game earlier in the game followed by Columbia State Community College facing off against Motlow State Community College earlier in the day.

Massey also said the Classic allows collegiate teams and visitors in the crowd enjoy what Columbia has to offer, such as restaurants and stay in nearby hotels.

University of Tennessee Vols Mackenzie Donihoo (12) runs onto third during the Midstate Classic at Ridley Sports Complex in Columbia, Tenn. on Mar. 15, 2023.
University of Tennessee Vols Mackenzie Donihoo (12) runs onto third during the Midstate Classic at Ridley Sports Complex in Columbia, Tenn. on Mar. 15, 2023.

Tennessee Elite travel softball team members, Brinley Carlton, Shayla Anast and Brylee Rofrano, all 8, enjoyed the game, while also gathering the autographed gameday Midstate Classic poster, signed by all team members of the Lady Vols and Lady Governors.

"I want to see my favorite team win," Anast said.

Austin Peay Govs Morgan Zuege (9) slides in to home during the Midstate Classic at Ridley Sports Complex in Columbia, Tenn. on Mar. 15, 2023.
Austin Peay Govs Morgan Zuege (9) slides in to home during the Midstate Classic at Ridley Sports Complex in Columbia, Tenn. on Mar. 15, 2023.

UT fan Jimmy Dugger watched the game decked out in his alma mater's colors, an orange blazer and baseball cap, in show of support.

"I am honored to have our Lady Vols come to our town. We are so blessed and privileged to see this game every year. I am looking forward to them coming back next year," Dugger said.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Herald: Sold-out crowd enjoys Columbia Midstate Classic as Lady Vols take win