Softball Stars Shine in Lower Hudson Valley
The New York State Sportswriters and Coaches’ Organization for Girls Sports released its 2026 all‑state softball teams on June 25, spotlighting standout athletes from the Lower Hudson Valley.
Class AA
Player of the Year: Ava Papaleo – Ursuline
Papaleo led her team to its first state finals in seven years.- First‑Team Roster:
- Ava Papaleo (Ursuline) – Pitcher/Catcher
- Sophia Gutierrez (Eastchester) – Center‑Fielder
- Marlee Levin (Clarkstown North) – Catcher
Several pitchers on third, fourth and fifth teams.
Coach of the Year: Chris Woolgar – Pearl River
Guided his squad to a historic playoff run.
Class AAA
- First‑Team Roster:
- Tara Murphy (North Rockland) – Senior Pitcher
- Carley Voce (Clarkstown South) – Center Field
Cara Luna (Clarkstown South) – Junior Shortstop
- Second‑Team Roster:
- Ava Ritterman (White Plains) – Catcher
Class A
- First‑Team Roster:
- Ashlyn Ryan (Pearl River) – Shortstop
- Second‑Team Roster:
- Haley Arvidson (Tappan Zee) – Pitcher
Katie Cole (Somers) – Shortstop
- Third‑Team Roster:
Angie Franzese (Pearl River) – Catcher
- Fourth‑Team Roster:
Players from Pleasantville, Somers, Ardsley and John Jay‑Cross River
- Fifth‑Team Roster:
- Additional talents from the same counties
Class B
- Third‑Team Roster:
- Victoria Baron (Dobbs Ferry) – Pitcher
Allegra Clementson (Haldane) – Freshman
- Fourth‑Team Roster:
- Charlotte Picone (Rye Neck)
Class C
- First‑Team Roster:
Katie Attwood (Tuckahoe) – Pitcher
- Second‑Team Roster:
Cayleigh Handel (Tuckahoe) – Pitcher
- Third‑Team Roster:
- Sophia Aqeel (North Salem) – Senior First Baseman
Across divisions, 30 players earned first‑team recognition, primarily from Westchester, Putnam and Rockland counties; Dutchess County contributed only one name. These selections reflect a vibrant softball community where hard work and teamwork shine across all levels.
