Softball To Play in 2026 Little League Girls with Game Experience

LEWISBURG, Pa.- For the second time in four years, Bucknell Softball will participate in the Little League Girls with Game Experience when the Bison face off against Mansfield at 1 p.m. on Oct. 18 at Howard J. Lamade Stadium. The Orange & Blue previously participated in the 2023 edition when the Bison played Maryland.

"There is something incredibly special about having the opportunity to give back to the game that has given so much to us," Bucknell head coach Angela Stackhouse proclaimed. "Being part of Girls with Game Experience at historic Lamade Stadium allows Bucknell Softball to do exactly that - to share our passion, our knowledge, and our experiences with the next generation of softball players."

The student-athletes from both programs will host a joint catching and pitching clinic for registered participants before competing in the game. While registration for the clinic has already closed, the exhibition game is open to the public and admission is free for spectators. Following the game, clinic participants will have the chance for an exclusive autograph session with the collegiate players.

"We're excited to spend the morning working with young pitchers and catchers, encouraging them to dream big and helping them see what is possible in this game," Stackhouse said.

The game against Mansfield will close the Bison's 2026 fall ball season. Bucknell has already played six games across a mixture of regional opponents and has looked sharp, with the freshman class making an immediate impact. Coach Stackhouse is eminently familiar with the Mountaineers, having spent years there as an assistant coach.

"By taking the field against Mansfield University that afternoon, we get to celebrate the game together through competition," Stackhouse noted.

Four current Bison — Molly Lawson, Shea Malone, Brooke Popella and Sarah Zimmerman — were part of the 2023 edition and greatly enjoyed their experience of passing along their knowledge, playing on a historic field, and the post-game autograph session.

"It was such a fun opportunity to be able to work with young softball players during the Girls With Game experience," Popella. "It gave me the opportunity to be surrounded by other young athletes who shared the same passion and love for the game that I have. The camp was already such a special experience, but getting the chance to actually play on the fields at the Little League World Series afterward made it even more meaningful. Stepping onto those fields and playing the game I loved in a place that has brought so many young athletes together was something I will always be grateful for. I am beyond excited to be able to go back this year and be a part of this experience again. Getting to do it all again feels like a full-circle experience that will make it even more meaningful."

Lawson concurred with her teammate, "Playing on Lamade was such a fun and unique experience. I have been to multiple Little League World Series games watching kids live out their dreams. It really makes you feel like a kid again and reminds you of why we started playing this game that we all love."

Softball has been one of the fastest-growing sports in America, and events like Girls with Game have played a burgeoning role in that growth. The latest Women's College World Series posted record numbers on ABC/ESPN, partly due to grassroots efforts and clinics introducing young girls to collegiate softball and letting them interact with players at a historic venue.

"Growing the game isn't just about teaching skills - it's about creating experiences, building relationships, and making sure the next generation falls in love with softball," Stackhouse said. "We're incredibly grateful to be part of that."

Bucknell's 2027 schedule will be announced at a later date

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