Champion Flashes win 9th state championship, most in the Valley

The Champion softball team are "kings and queens" of the Mahoning Valley.

The Flashes won their third straight and ninth overall state softball crown with a 5-0 win over Cardington-Lincoln at Firestone Stadium.

That's the most championships by a team in any sport in the Mahoning Valley.

They also did not allow a run in their tournament run.

"I'm running out of words. I'm so happy for these seniors and the whole team," said veteran coach Cheryl Weaver, whose team finished 30-2 with 22 shutouts.

Sophomore Cassidy Shaffer provided all the offense with a three-run home run in the 6th, and a two-run shot in the 7th.

"Wow, wow! It feels amazing," said Shaffer, who tied a state tournament record with her two home runs.

"That was an amazing team and pitcher, and I'm just mind blown. It's crazy," said Shaffer.

Allison Smith held the Pioneers in check allowing three hits and ten strikeouts.

"Thank God for two really good pitchers," said Smith, about herself and Sophie Howell. "If it's not for Sophie. She got us here with a win in the state semifinals."