The Trion High School Lady Bulldogs are preparing for their second consecutive appearance in the Georgia High School Association Class A Softball Elite Eight, with their opening game scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, against Irwin County.

The Lady Bulldogs will take the field at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday at the South Commons Softball Complex in Columbus, Georgia, as they begin their pursuit of a state championship.

Trion earned its place among the final eight teams with an impressive sweep of Taylor County in the second round of the state playoffs on October 19.

The Lady Bulldogs defeated Taylor County 3-0 in the opening game behind a shutout pitching performance from Hartley Staton, who struck out nine batters. Trion then battled to a 5-4 victory in the second game to complete the sweep.

The victories were especially meaningful after Taylor County handed Trion its first loss at last year’s Elite Eight tournament.

Trion entered the second round after sweeping Atkinson County in the opening round, winning 11-1 and 17-5.

Head Coach Trent Stamey praised his players following the Taylor County series, saying the team had shown determination throughout the season and that their hard work had earned them another opportunity to compete for a state championship.

The state tournament runs Wednesday through Saturday, October 31, and features a double-elimination format, meaning teams must lose twice before being eliminated.

Fans planning to attend should know that tickets must be purchased online through GoFan. Tickets will not be sold at the gate.

All tournament games will also be available through the NFHS Network.

The Lady Bulldogs will be looking to continue their outstanding season Wednesday afternoon as they take on Irwin County in Columbus.