The Morgan County 9U softball team put together an impressive week at the Jefferson 9U Showdown  at the Jefferson county Little League Complex. The girls won their  first three games before finishing as tournament runner-up after a hard-fought championship game on Sunday, June 7.

Morgan County opened tournament play Thursday, June 4 with a 21-20 comeback victory over South Berkeley. After falling behind 5-0 in the first inning, Morgan County responded immediately, tying the game behind key hits from Calleigh McCarty, Kalila Dignazio and Lillyana Rexroad. The offensive fireworks continued throughout the contest as Morgan County rallied for the one-run victory. Dignazio drove in two runs, while McCarty, Maddie Sloan, Rexroad, Emma Delph, Ellie Shambaugh and Mary Boyer each contributed hits.

The bats stayed hot Saturday morning, June 6, as Morgan County rolled past Jefferson, 11-0. Delph homered and tripled, helping lead a 14-hit attack. Dignazio, Sloan and Delph each recorded multiple hits, while Boyer added a run to put the game out of reach.

Later Saturday, Morgan County continued its offensive surge with a 14-4 victory over South County Little League. The team built an early advantage by scoring five runs in the first inning and five more in the second. Delph collected three hits, including a double, while Rexroad and Delph each drove in three runs. Morgan County finished with 20 hits, receiving multiple-hit performances from Dignazio, Sloan, Shambaugh, Celina Stotlerand Raelynn Swisher.

The three victories sent Morgan County into Sunday’s championship game against South County Little League in Boonsboro, Md., on Sunday, June 7. Despite entering the title game as the tournament’s only unbeaten team, Morgan County was forced to play a winner-take-all championship contest.

The championship proved to be another offensive showcase. Morgan County out-hit South County 21-16 but came up short in a 12-8 defeat. Rexroad drove in three runs, while Delph and Isabella Sipe each collected three hits. Dignazio, McCarty, Sadie Smith, Shambaugh and Boyer also recorded multiple-hit games as Morgan County’s lineup continued its strong tournament performance.

Over four games, Morgan County showcased one of the tournament’s most explosive offenses, scoring 54 runs while compiling 62 hits. The team finished with a 3-1 record, highlighted by dominant victories over Jefferson and South County, a dramatic comeback win against South Berkeley and an appearance in the championship game.

Though the tournament ended one win shy of a title, the young Morgan County squad demonstrated resilience, offensive firepower and strong all-around play throughout the weekend.

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A renewed sense of purpose is sweeping through Berkeley Springs High School as the Indians prepare for the upcoming football season under new leadership.

Head coach CJ Watts steps into the role at a pivotal moment for the program, becoming the sixth head football coach since 2011 replacing the now departed Wes Eddy. With change comes opportunity and Watts arrives determined to bring stability, energy and a clear vision to a program hungry for direction and success.

A graduate of Petersburg High School (2017) and West Virginia University, Watts brings five years of teaching and coaching experience from Hedgesville High School. His background, combined with a passion for small-town athletics, makes Berkeley Springs an ideal fit.

“The small-town football feeling is one of the best experiences I’ve been a part of,” Watts said. “We want to bring pride back to Berkeley Springs football and that pride can extend throughout the entire school and community.”

Watts’ approach is rooted in fundamentals, discipline and culture; starting with the foundation of every successful program: the weight room.

His immediate focus is simple but powerful: build stronger, faster, more resilient athletes while instilling habits that translate directly to Friday nights.

Equally important is the mindset he is working to establish.

The new Indians identity centers around a “hard hat and lunch pail” mentality—a culture where effort is non-negotiable, accountability is expected and success is earned through preparation.

Watts emphasizes a program-wide commitment to team-first thinking, where both players and coaches are held to high standards in their roles.

On the field, Berkeley Springs fans can expect an exciting and disciplined product.

Offensively, Watts is implementing a system designed to:

• Maximize playmakers in open space;
• Build from a clear, teachable base system; and
• Develop confidence through repetition and execution.

Defensively, the philosophy mirrors that structure while adding a strategic edge:

• Strong fundamentals and positioning;
• Emphasis on reading keys and responsibilities; and
• Creating confusion and capitalizing on opponent mistakes.

The result is a team built to play fast, physical and instinctive football.

One of the most encouraging signs for the program has been the response from the players.

Since taking over, Watts has seen a group eager to improve embracing offseason strength training, speed development and new systems on both sides of the ball.

That willingness to learn and compete daily is exactly what Watts believes will fuel long-term success.

While building a competitive football team is a priority, Watts is equally committed to developing well-rounded young men.

Players are expected to uphold high standards in the classroom, community and athletic program, understanding they represent Berkeley Springs at all times.

Through football, Watts aims to instill values that extend far beyond the game:

• Accountability
• Work ethic
•  Mental toughness
•  Teamwork

“The lessons learned in football carry over into life,” he emphasized, pointing to the sport’s role in preparing athletes for adversity and responsibility.

Recognizing the deep connection between high school football and community pride, Watts is placing a major emphasis on engagement.

Plans are already underway too:

• Increase player involvement in community service;
• Host youth camps and outreach opportunities;
• Strengthen ties with local organizations and businesses; and
• Celebrate community members during home games.

He is also focused on building a strong bridge to youth football, ensuring younger athletes feel connected to the high school program early.

The goal is to create a program that the entire community can rally around—one that represents Morgan County with pride.

Like any rebuilding effort, challenges remain.

Watts is focused on increasing participation numbers, building depth; especially in the trenches and improving offseason consistency.

His strategy includes:

• Actively recruiting within the school;
• Expanding offseason training participation; and
• Developing a stronger pipeline through youth programs.

Each step is part of a long-term commitment to creating a sustainable and competitive program.

As the season approaches, excitement continues to build, not just because of a new coach, but because of the visible effort being put in behind the scenes.

Watts measures success beyond wins and losses in year one, focusing instead on player development, consistency and weekly improvement.

That mindset, combined with the dedication already shown by returning players, has begun to shift the tone around the program.

With CJ Watts at the helm, Berkeley Springs football is entering more than just a new season;  it is entering a new era.

One defined by structure, effort and belief.

One aimed at restoring pride and building lasting success.

And as the lights come on this fall, one thing is certain: The Indians will take the field with renewed energy and a community ready to stand behind them.

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The Paw Paw Pirates delivered a performance for the ages at the WVSSAC Class A State Track and Field Championships, powered by two exceptional seniors whose efforts etched their names into program history.

Leading the charge was Shayla Tanouye, who closed out one of the most decorated careers the school has ever seen with a breathtaking all-around performance, while Joselyn Smith secured All-State honors and anchored the Pirates in the field events.

Together, their efforts propelled Paw Paw to a tie for 10th place overall with 31.5 points, standing tall among the state’s elite programs in a meet won by Wheeling Central Catholic.

Although she did not repeat as a state champion in either the long jump or 300-meter hurdles, Shayla Tanouye proved once again that she is one of the premier athletes in West Virginia, delivering elite performances across four events.

Tanouye finished: Second place – 100-meter hurdles; second place – 300-meter hurdles; second place – long jump (16-4.75) and sixth place – high jump (4-6).

Her remarkable versatility and consistency allowed her to pile up 26.5 of Paw Paw’s 31.5 total team points, an astonishing contribution that made her the third-highest individual scorer across the entire Class A girls state meet.

In a championship setting where every point matters, Tanouye carried the Pirates into the top 10 almost single-handedly, competing relentlessly from the runway to the track to the high jump pit.

With this performance, she cements her legacy as the most decorated female athlete in Paw Paw High School history, a career defined not only by championships, but by sustained excellence, leadership and dominance across multiple disciplines.

Senior Joselyn Smith added to the Pirates’ success with a powerful showing in the throwing events, earning All-State honors with a fourth-place finish in the shot put (31-3).

Smith also competed in the discus, placing 10th (86-9) and demonstrating her all-around strength and consistency. Her shot put performance contributed valuable points to the team total and underscored her growth into one of the top field event athletes in the region.

Her finish ensured that Paw Paw’s senior class would leave Charleston with multiple All-State recognitions, a fitting end to their careers.

The Pirates saw additional efforts from their lineup:

• Nathan Dick finished 12th in the boys shot put (36-6.25);
• Alexis Kidwell placed 15th in the girls shot put (26-6).

While the spotlight belonged to Tanouye and Smith, these contributions added depth and experience to the Pirates’ state presence.

In a field dominated by some of the state’s deepest and most established programs, Paw Paw’s tie for 10th place stands as a testament to determination, preparation and elite individual performances.

But beyond the team finish, this meet will be remembered for Shayla Tanouye’s unforgettable final chapter, a performance that showcased heart, resilience and unmatched versatility and for Joselyn Smith’s All-State achievement, which added strength and balance to the Pirates’ success.

As these seniors close the door on their high school careers, their impact on Paw Paw athletics is undeniable.

Tanouye leaves behind a standard that future Pirates will chase for years not just in medals and points, but in effort and excellence. Smith departs as a dependable force in the field events and a key contributor to a state-level team finish.

For Paw Paw, this was more than a meet; it was a celebration of legacy, leadership and Pirate pride at its finest.

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The Berkeley Springs Lady Indians delivered a strong and promising showing at the 2026 WV Class AA State Track and Field Championships at Laidley Field, finishing 10th out of 20 teams overall with 29.5 points and highlighting a program on the rise with multiple All-State performances.

Leading the way was sophomore Abigail Close, who earned Runner-Up All-State honors in the 300-meter hurdles, finishing second with a personal-best time of 49.38. Close’s breakthrough performance established her among the top hurdlers in Class AA while also contributing a sixth-place finish in the high jump (4-10.00).

Fellow sophomore Reese Souders secured a podium finish in the high jump, placing third with a personal-best clearance of 5-0.00. She also added a ninth-place finish in the 800 meters (2:34.84), demonstrating her versatility across events.

In the distance events, sophomore Bella Shoemaker earned All-State recognition with a seventh-place finish in the 3200 meters, clocking a personal-best 13:06.13.

Senior Aviona Ambrose contributed an All-State performance in the 100-meter hurdles, placing eighth in 18.09 after posting a personal-best 16.95 in the preliminaries to qualify for the finals.

In the throwing events, junior Katie Risinger placed fifth in the shot put (32-2.75) and also competed in the discus, finishing 13th.

The Lady Indians also found success in relay competition. The 4×102.5 shuttle hurdle relay team of Aviona Ambrose (12), Ava Michael (9), Maci Michael (10) and Abigail Close (10) earned All-State honors with a sixth-place finish (1:13.08).

Additional relay performances included:

• 4×200 relay (12th, 1:58.41) Isabelle Bingaman (11), Reese Souders (10), Ava Michael (9), Abigail Close (10)
• 4×100 relay (16th, 55.56) Aviona Ambrose (12), Maci Michael (10), Lilli Stevens (12), Xavia Willcox (9)

Senior Maddie Close added an All-State effort in the pole vault, finishing sixth at 8-0.00.

On the boys’ side, Berkeley Springs tied for 19th place out of 22 teams, led by sophomore Landon Tausen, who earned All-State honors with a fifth-place finish in the long jump (20-1.00). The 4×800 relay team of Josh Walls (12), Joshua Lucas (9), Haven Ailor (11) and Jay Nazelrod (11) placed 11th with a time of 9:20.46.

A defining theme of Berkeley Springs’ performance was the impact of its underclassmen. Several key contributors, including Abigail Close, Reese Souders, Bella Shoemaker, Landon Tausen, Ava Michael, Maci Michael and Xavia Willcox, are freshmen and sophomores.

With multiple personal records achieved on the state’s biggest stage and several All-State finishes secured by returning athletes, the Lady Indians have positioned themselves as a program with significant upward momentum.

As the team looks ahead, expectations will continue to rise for a young core that has already demonstrated its ability to compete among the best in Class AA.

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Under clear skies at the picturesque Alumni Stadium, the Berkeley Springs High School track and field team delivered one of its most impressive postseason performances in recent memory, qualifying an outstanding 17 athletes for the WVSSAC Class AA State Championships at the Region II meet last Wednesday, May 13.

The Lady Indians squad powered its way to a runner-up finish with 96 points, trailing only Lincoln (160), while the boys battled through a competitive field and gained valuable postseason momentum.

Berkeley Springs was fueled by multiple individual champions, headlined by senior standout Aviona Ambrose, who dominated the hurdles:

• 100m Hurdles Champion (17.11) – State Qualifier.

Ambrose also played a critical role across multiple relays, showcasing her versatility and leadership.

Sophomore Abigail Close delivered a breakout performance with two titles:

• 300m Hurdles Champion (50.14) – State Qualifier; and
• High Jump Champion (4’8”) – State Qualifier.

Close added even more value as a key contributor on multiple relay teams.

The Lady Indians demonstrated strong depth in distance events:

• Reese Souders – third in 800m (2:30.65) – State Qualifier; and
• Bella Shoemaker – sixth in 3200m (13:37.60) – State Qualifier.

Souders also qualified in the high jump with a third-place finish at 4’8”.

In the throwing events, Katie Risinger delivered a standout double:

• Second in Shot Put (33’5.75”) – State Qualifier; and
• Third in Discus (98’11”) – State Qualifier.

Berkeley Springs’ success was driven in large part by well-balanced and determined relay teams, with multiple squads earning state qualification.

Girls Relay State Qualifiers

• 4×100 Relay (56.12): Aviona Ambrose, Taylor Henry, Lilli Stevens and Xavia Willcox;
• 4×200 Relay (1:58.02): Isabelle Bingaman, Abigail Close, Ava Michael and Reese Souders;
• 4×102.5 Shuttle Hurdles Relay (1:15.81): Aviona Ambrose, Abigail Close, Maci Michael and Ava Michael.

Each relay unit combined speed, chemistry and execution to secure spots in the state championships.

Senior Maddie Close delivered a personal-best performance:

• Second in Pole Vault (8’0”) – State Qualifier.

Her effort added to Berkeley Springs’ strong representation in field events.

On the boys side, Berkeley Springs fought through a deep field to produce a standout state qualifier:

• 4×800 Relay (9:28.82) – State Qualifier: Haven Ailor, Joshua Lucas, Jay Nazelrod and Josh Walls.

The distance quartet demonstrated consistency and endurance to secure their place at the state meet.

Individually, Landon Tausen led the boys’ efforts:

• Fifth in Long Jump (19’2.75”) – State Qualifier.

The sprint relay team also delivered a solid performance:

• 4×100 Relay (50.20): Leland Smoot, Austin Gentile, Landon Somers and Landon Tausen.

Distance runners Jay Nazelrod (sixth, 1600m) and Josh Walls (seventh, 1600m) contributed valuable points, while throwers Brian Ailor, Jaxen Landers and Ian Holmes added depth in the field events. Josh Morgan posted a personal best in the pole vault.

Beyond medals and qualifications, the meet highlighted significant individual improvement. Multiple athletes recorded personal bests, including:

• Leland Smoot (100m, 200m);
• Ava Michael (200m);
• Isabelle Bingaman (200m);
• Jaxen Landers and Ian Holmes (discus); and
• Maddie Close (pole vault)

With 17 athletes advancing across individual and relay events, Berkeley Springs now turns its attention to the state championships with confidence and momentum.

Blending experienced seniors, rising underclassmen, and strong relay chemistry, the Indians have positioned themselves as a formidable presence. Their performance at Region II made one thing clear: Berkeley Springs is not just qualifying athletes;  they are building a program ready to compete at the highest level.

Next up for Berkeley Springs is the 2026 Class AA State Track and Field Championships this coming Friday, May 22 and Saturday, May 23 at Laidley Field in the state capital Charleston.

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The Berkeley Springs Indians wrapped up their regular baseball season on Monday, May 11, falling to Keyser by an 11–1 final, bringing their overall record to 6–23 on the year. Despite the result, the Tribe now turns its attention toward postseason competition in the Class AA Region II Championships.

Keyser struck early and controlled the pace throughout, capitalizing on timely hitting and consistent pitching to pull away from Berkeley Springs. The Golden Tornado built a steady lead across the middle innings, keeping the Indians’ offense in check.

Berkeley Springs found a bright spot at the plate in Kyle Moore, who paced the Indians offensively. Moore delivered a double and came around to score the team’s lone run of the contest. His aggressive base running paid off when Shawn McCumbee drove him home with an RBI single, accounting for the only run of the night for the Indians.

Jalen Miller also contributed offensively, recording a single as Berkeley Springs managed to string together a handful of base runners against a strong Keyser defense.

While the regular season record reflects a challenging campaign, the Indians showed flashes of development and resilience throughout the spring. Underclassmen logged valuable innings, and returning players gained experience that the program hopes will translate into future success.

Now, with the regular season complete, Berkeley Springs shifts its focus to the postseason, where records reset and opportunities emerge.

The Indians  hit the road for regional play with a slate of challenging matchups ahead:

• May 18 (TBA) — at Trinity Christian;
• May 18, 6 p.m., at Lincoln; and
• May 19, 6 p.m., at Petersburg TBD.

As the postseason begins, Berkeley Springs will look to build momentum and embrace the fresh start that tournament play provides. With key contributors stepping up offensively and the chance to tighten execution on the field, the Indians aim to extend their season and make noise in Region II competition.

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The Paw Paw Pirates track and field program delivered a determined and highly competitive performance at the regional championships held at Keyser High School back on Wednesday, May 13 at Alumni Stadium, highlighted by a historic effort from senior standout Shayla Tanouye and multiple state-qualifying performances across both the boys and girls teams.

Competing against a strong field, the Paw Paw girls finished fourth overall with 64 points, trailing Pendleton County (105), Tucker County (100) and East Hardy (87). On the boys side, Paw Paw battled throughout the meet, gaining valuable experience and individual success against top-tier competition.

Senior Shayla Tanouye once again demonstrated why she is among the premier athletes in the region, capturing four regional championships in a dominant all-around performance.

Tanouye earned first-place finishes in:

• 100-meter hurdles – 15.77 (season best);
• 300-meter hurdles – 48.34;
• High jump – 4-09; and
•  Long jump – 17-00.25 (personal best).

Her versatility and consistency across multiple disciplines were unmatched, as she combined technical excellence with composure in high-pressure moments. With each title, Tanouye continues to elevate her standing in program history while solidifying her position as a leading contender entering the state championships.

The Pirates’ success was further reinforced by a strong showing in the field events, particularly in the throws.

Joselyn Smith delivered a powerful performance, qualifying for the state meet in both throwing events:

• Shot put – second place, 31-10 and
• Discus – second place, 103-03.

Smith’s combination of strength and technique allowed her to consistently compete at a high level, earning two podium finishes and establishing herself as a serious competitor heading into state competition.

Senior Alexis Kidwell also secured a state berth with a solid performance:

• Shot put – fourth place, 27-03.

Kidwell added additional depth in the discus, finishing seventh and played a key role in the Pirates’ overall scoring effort.

On the boy’s side, Nathan Dick led Paw Paw’s state qualifiers with a strong showing in the shot put:

• Shot put – third place, 36-05 (state qualifier).

Dick’s performance highlighted both consistency and competitive maturity, positioning him well for the upcoming state meet.

Several Pirates contributed important efforts and personal bests throughout the meet:

Boys Highlights

• RJ Ryan – fourth in the 200 meters (26.28, personal best);
• Connor Kendall – eighth in the long jump (16-07.75, personal best);
• Tomy Santos – fifth in discus (108-02, personal best); and
• Justus Smith – fifth in shot put (35-02).

Girls Highlights

• Sophia Ross – eighth in discus; and
• Sarah Thorne – competed in shot put.

These performances, particularly the personal records, reflect continued growth and development across the roster.

The regional meet showcased the Pirates’ resilience and competitive depth, as they faced larger programs and strong competition across all events. With multiple state qualifiers, Paw Paw will carry both momentum and confidence into the next stage of competition.

Led by Tanouye’s historic four-title performance and supported by a talented group of emerging and established athletes, the Pirates remain well-positioned to make an impact at the state championships.

Paw Paw’s regional showing was defined not only by results, but by consistency, effort, and commitment to excellence, qualities that will continue to guide the program as it advances to the final stage of the season.

Next up is the WV Class A State Track and Field Championships held at Laidley Field in Charleston,  this Friday, May 22 and Saturday, May 23.

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Herb Spicer, 71, of Great Cacapon departs today for Florida to compete in the Iron Man global series — his 15^th triathlon — this Saturday, May 16 in Jacksonville.

The course consists of a 2.4-mile swim down a river, a 112-mile bike ride around the city, and a 26.2-mile full marathon. Those who finish on time will qualify for the Boston Marathon.

Spicer is feeling confident, and should he place first in his division of 70 to 74-year-olds, he will proceed directly to the Iron Man world championships in Kona, Hawaii.

“I’m an older person, and I want to give people hope. You’re never too old,” said Spicer in an interview with The Morgan Messenger.

At age 29, Spicer was overweight and out-of-shape. One day, after a bout with severe chest pain, he discovered a book on the Pritikin diet and began following it religiously.

Popular when released in the 1970s, the Pritikin lifestyle eventually fell out of favor due to the difficulty of sticking to its very low-fat, plant-based diet combined with a daily exercise recommendation of 30 to 90 minutes of cross-training.

Defying the odds, Spicer stuck with the program. Today, at about 5’10” and 127 pounds, he carries the physique of a much younger man.

At age 44, Spicer became a certified personal trainer, an avocation he continues.

Two years later, he competed in his first Iron Man competition and has never looked back.

Since relocating to Great Cacapon from Frederick over a year ago, Spicer’s goals include leading personal training for all ages in Morgan County.

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Effective immediately, veterans are eligible to receive one free personal training session, made possible through a generous grant from the Eastern West Virginia Community Foundation’s Frank C. Fischer Veterans Fund.

Recognizing the unique physical needs of those who have served, this program allows veterans to jumpstart their fitness journey with professional guidance at no cost. To take advantage of this offer, veterans must register and select the trainer that best fits their personal health goals.

“Physical fitness is a huge part of the discipline and strength required to serve our country, and that commitment to fitness shouldn’t have to end when you retire,” said County Commission President Joel Tuttle.

Meet the Training Experts

Veterans can choose to work with one of two certified trainers at The Well:

–Donatella Bennet: Specializing in clients aged 55+, Bennett focuses on functional fitness. Her sessions are designed to help individuals maintain mobility and strength to navigate day-to-day life with ease.

–Nathaniel Spring: Specializing in Strength and Conditioning, Spring offers high-intensity training for those looking to push their physical limits and build robust muscular endurance.

The Morgan County Commission is introducing a 10%

discounted Wellness Center membership rate for active-duty military and veterans.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Eastern West Virginia Community Foundation and the Morgan County Commission for their partnership,” said Matt Pennington, Wellness Center Director. “One of our goals is to ensure that those who serve our country have the resources they need to remain healthy, active, and connected to their community.”

How to Register

Veterans interested in the free training session or membership can visit www.morgancountywv.gov/thewell, follow the Wellness Center on Facebook or call 304-258-5555.

The Morgan County Wellness Center is our public indoor fitness and recreation facility located at 23 Fitness Lane in Berkeley Springs. Featuring a full-sized gym, cardio machines, and strength training equipment, The Well is dedicated to strengthening community wellness together.

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On a beautiful day and big-meet atmosphere of Morgantown’s Mylan Park, the track and field athletes of Berkeley Springs High School and Paw Paw High School represented Morgan County Schools at the Mountaineer Showcase, one of the largest and most competitive meets in West Virginia this season.

Facing elite programs from across the state and region, Morgan County athletes delivered personal bests, season bests, top‑10 finishes, and moments of grit that reflected the growing strength and unity of both programs.

Senior Shayla Tanouye of Paw Paw High School turned in one of the most impressive overall performances of the entire meet, cementing herself as one of the premier multi‑event athletes in the state.

Tanouye earned multiple top‑five finishes, including:

• Third place – 100m hurdles (16.49);
• Second place – 300m hurdles (47.74);
• Fourth place – High Jump (4’8”) and
• Fourth place – Long Jump (15’10.5”).

Her consistency across sprints, hurdles and field events powered Paw Paw to a ninth‑place team finish in the girls varsity standings and showcased the depth of talent in Morgan County.

Paw Paw also saw strong performances from:

• Joselyn Smith, who placed fifth in discus (99’5”) and ninth in shot put;
• Alexis Kidwell, competing in both shot put and discus and
• Justus Smith, representing Paw Paw on the boys side in shot put and discus.

The Berkeley Springs boys team took on deep fields in sprinting, distance, hurdles and throws, highlighted by a top‑10 finish from sophomore Landon Tausen, who placed seventh in the long jump with a mark of 18’9.5”.

Sprinters Landon Tausen, Leland Smoot and Austin Gentile competed in the 100m and 200m, each recording personal or season bests, while Smoot doubled successfully across both events.

In the middle distances:

• Cayden Swink ran personal bests in the 200m and 400m;
• Rylan Henry competed in the 400m finals;
• Joshua Lucas and Zander Clark showed endurance strength in the 800m and
• Josh Walls, Jay Nazelrod and Haven Ailor carried the Cardinal banner in the 1600m and 3200m, with Nazelrod placing 13th in the 3200m against a strong field.

In the hurdles, Bladyn Younker posted personal bests in both the 110m and 300m hurdles, while the throws crew of Chris Welker, Jaxen Landers, Ian Holmes, Landon Somers and Paw Paw’s Justus Smith competed against some of the state’s top throwers.

The Berkeley Springs girls team showcased balance across sprints, distance, relays, and field events.

On the track:

• Taylor Henry, Lilli Stevens and Ally Norcross competed in the 100m dash, all setting personal or season bests;
• Ava Michael, Lilli Stevens and Ally Norcross doubled in the 200m;
• Isabelle Bingaman delivered a personal best in the 400m;
• Reese Souders earned seventh in the 800m and ninth in the 1600m, one of the meet’s top distance efforts; and
• Bella Shoemaker placed 8th in the 3200m, battling a deep endurance field.

Berkeley Springs also impressed in relays, with top‑10 finishes in both the 4×100 (Ambrose, Willcox, Henry, Maci Michael) and 4×200 (Willcox, Bingaman, Souders, Ava Michael).

In the field events:

• Katie Risinger placed sixth in shot put;
• Maddie Close earned sixth in pole vault;
• Mykenzie Stotler, Aviona Ambrose and Paw Paw competitors added valuable experience in the throws; and
• Maci Michael contributed in hurdles and long jump.

While team scores placed Berkeley Springs 17th in boys’ varsity and 14th in girls’ varsity, the results tell only part of the story. Against powerhouse programs such as University, Washington, Greenbrier East and Bridgeport; Morgan County athletes showed poise, toughness and steady improvement.

From Shayla Tanouye’s medal‑winning day to breakthrough performances and personal bests across both schools, the Mountaineer Showcase proved that Morgan County Schools belong on the state’s biggest track and field stage.

As the postseason approaches, the experience gained at Mylan Park will serve both Berkeley Springs and Paw Paw well and the pride worn on their uniforms was evident from the first gun to the final field mark.

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