Penn-Trafford honors two-time state champion softball team at board meeting

Penn-Trafford School District board members recognized the district’s two-time state champion softball team during the board’s regular meeting on Aug. 11, 2025.

The recognition, presented during the board’s information segment, introduced coaches and players from the championship squad and acknowledged the group’s recent on-field accomplishments. Coach Denny’s staff and two-time state champion coach Benny Little and Mark Cleveland were noted by district staff during the introductions. District staff told the board the team lost a close game to Shaler in the Whitfield championship in extra innings earlier but later returned to win a state title.

District staff running the presentation named players and described key moments cited from the season, including game-winning hits by Liz Welch and extra-inning offensive contributions that produced the state championship runs. The board was told rings will be distributed Sept. 19 during the football game against Giske; the date and venue were presented by district staff as the planned distribution event.

The coaches and student-athletes who were introduced included coaches Benny Little and Mark Cleveland and players announced by district staff: Annabelle Carbajal, Allison Polo, Mackenzie Cox, Liz Welch, Bella Ruby, Riley Moore, Ella Mains, Ava Heller, Gianna Picone, Gabby Ruby, Taylor Noel, Julianne O'Reilly, Angelina Cardamone, Brooke Boss and others listed during the presentation. The board thanked the team and coaches for representing the district.

The recognition occurred near the start of the meeting; board members invited the athletes and coaches to remain for the remainder of the meeting or leave after the presentation.