YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. | The Conference Carolinas has released its 2026 softball preseason poll, with Young Harris College projected to finish seventh in the league standings. Francis Marion University was selected as the preseason favorite to claim the conference crown. 

Coming off a 22-win campaign that was heavily impacted by injuries, the Mountain Lions enter the 2026 season positioned for a rebound under the leadership of head coach Jessie Homesley, who enters her sixth season at the helm of the program. 

INSIDE THE POLL:

Despite navigating significant lineup challenges throughout the 2025 season, Young Harris remained competitive and reached the 20-win mark, showing resilience across a demanding Conference Carolinas slate. Injuries played a major role in limiting continuity, but the Mountain Lions consistently battled through conference play and laid the groundwork for growth entering the new year. 

With improved health and experience returning across the roster, the Mountain Lions' seventh-place preseason projection reflects both the competitiveness of the league and the opportunity ahead for Young Harris to climb the standings during the 2026 campaign. 

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Veteran leadership will be a key component of the Mountain Lions' approach this spring, highlighted by the return of three senior leaders. 

Shelby Duncan provides experience and stability after serving as a key contributor throughout the 2025 season. 

Gracie Hughes returns as a steady presence in the lineup, bringing leadership and great versatility for Young Harris. 

Bailee Brown adds additional senior leadership, experience, and speed as the Mountain Lions look to translate last season's lessons into results. 

LOOKING AHEAD:

With a seventh-place preseason projection, renewed health, and experienced leadership guiding the roster, the Mountain Lions will aim to turn last season's adversity into momentum as they prepare for Conference Carolinas play and a push toward postseason contention.