Four Local Teams Ranked in First Softball State Poll

Austintown Fitch tops Division I, Boardman and Lakeview also ranked

Apr. 14, 2026 at 1:50am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a high school softball game, with players and the field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of vibrant colors.The early state softball rankings highlight the competitive spirit and talent of local high school programs in the Youngstown area.Youngstown Today

The Ohio High School Softball Coaches Association released the first coaches poll for the 2026 season, with four Valley teams earning rankings. Austintown Fitch was voted the top-ranked team in Division I, while Boardman earned fourth in Division III and Lakeview is ranked third in Division IV. Beaver Local also earned a tie for eighth in Division IV.

Why it matters

The early state rankings provide a snapshot of the top high school softball programs in Ohio and set the stage for an exciting season of competition. These rankings will help drive interest and anticipation among local fans and shape the narrative around which teams are expected to contend for state titles.

The details

In the Division I poll, Austintown Fitch earned 9 first-place votes and 90 total points to claim the top spot. In Division III, Boardman earned 51 total points for the fourth ranking. Lakeview is ranked third in Division IV with 76 total points, and Beaver Local tied for eighth in that division with 24 points.

  • The Ohio High School Softball Coaches Association released the first coaches poll for the 2026 season on Monday, April 14, 2026.

The players

Austintown Fitch

The top-ranked team in Division I, earning 9 first-place votes and 90 total points.

Boardman

Ranked fourth in Division III with 51 total points.

Lakeview

Ranked third in Division IV with 76 total points.

Beaver Local

Tied for eighth in Division IV with 24 points.

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The takeaway

The early state rankings highlight the strength of high school softball programs in the Youngstown area, with four local teams earning spots in the first coaches poll of the 2026 season. These rankings will build anticipation and excitement among fans as the season progresses, and will shape the narrative around which teams are expected to compete for state titles.