The Jackson County School Board took time Tuesday evening to recognize a truly special group of student-athletes: the Marianna K-8 Middle School softball team, the 2025–26 undefeated district champions.

Marianna K-8’s “A” team capped off a dominant season with a 7-2 win over RMS Lady Bears to claim the district championship, marking the program’s second consecutive title. The Bullpups, who also opened the postseason with a 10-0 shutout of FSUS, finished a perfect 22-0 on the year after going 19-2-1 last season. Over the course of this spring, Marianna K-8 overwhelmed opponents, outscoring them 241-19 while recording 11 shutouts in 22 games.

With a  break in the action over 2026 spring break, four Jackson County varsity softball teams were ready to hit the diamond last week.

Malone powered past Jefferson County 18-8 on Friday behind a balanced offensive attack and a strong outing in the circle from Arielle Dickens.

With baseball and softball around the corner, let me just rant for a bit.

The season has come to an end and all-stars have been chosen. The last weeks were full of excitement and anxiety with every team and every player trying to showcase their best skills and pick up those last few wins. The Darlings were no exception to playing with heart and soul through the very last game.

As the sun sets on our softball season here in Graceville, I find myself reflecting on the beautiful chaos, the countless memories, and the immeasurable joy of coaching the 7-8-year-old girls’ softball team — the Darlings.