Local Grads Lead ETSU Softball to Victory

Croley and Muncy power Buccaneers to end losing streak

Apr. 19, 2026 at 4:04am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a softball game, with overlapping planes of navy, green, and gold representing the dynamic action on the field.Local standouts Croley and Muncy power ETSU to a crucial conference victory, breaking down the game into a dynamic cubist composition.Johnson City Today

East Tennessee State University's softball team snapped a three-game losing skid thanks to standout performances from local graduates Abby Croley and Megan Muncy. The Buccaneers defeated Mercer University in a key conference matchup.

Why it matters

ETSU's softball program has struggled in recent seasons, making this win an important boost for team morale and their chances of qualifying for the conference tournament. Croley and Muncy, both from the Johnson City area, provided a hometown spark to help their alma mater get back on track.

The details

Croley, a senior outfielder, went 3-for-4 at the plate with a double, a home run, and 3 RBIs. Muncy, a junior pitcher, earned the win by tossing a complete game with 8 strikeouts. The Buccaneers jumped out to an early lead and held on to win 6-4, snapping their three-game losing streak.

  • The game was played on April 18, 2026.
  • ETSU had lost its previous 3 games before this victory.

The players

Abby Croley

A senior outfielder for the ETSU softball team, Croley is from the Johnson City area and had a standout performance in the win.

Megan Muncy

A junior pitcher for the ETSU softball team, Muncy is also from the Johnson City area and earned the win with a complete game effort.

ETSU

The East Tennessee State University softball team, which snapped a 3-game losing streak with this victory.

Mercer University

The opposing team that ETSU defeated in this key conference matchup.

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What they’re saying

“It was great to see our local players step up and lead the team to this important win. Abby and Megan really sparked us today.”

— Claudia Stokes, ETSU Softball Head Coach

What’s next

ETSU will look to build on this win as they continue their conference schedule. Their next game is against Furman University on April 22nd.

The takeaway

This victory demonstrates the value of having local talent on the roster, as Croley and Muncy provided a much-needed boost to help ETSU snap its losing streak. The Buccaneers will hope this win can propel them to more success as they push for a conference tournament berth.