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The 1986 State College Little Lions softball team’s run to the PIAA title was shaped by grit, fundamentals, and a bond that carried them through every inning and helped them earn the state championship.
Team member Shelly (Marshall) Ishler remembers, “Once we were on the practice field or in a game, nothing mattered but playing together as a team.” That single-minded focus played a big part in their success.
In the opening round of post-season playoffs, the Little Lions earned a tight 2-1 win over St. Mary’s. In the quarterfinals, they had another close victory over Baldwin in 12 innings. The team shut out Hempfield 5-0 in the semifinals.
By the time they reached the state final against Council Rock, the team had already proven they could win close games, long games, and under pressure. In the championship game, they delivered.
“Pitcher Judy Moyer pitched a steady game, forcing Council Rock to put the ball in play,” Shelly said. “We won the game in the bottom of the 7th with a walk off homeroom by our catcher, senior Kristen Vanderbush. Unfortunately, Kristen passed away two years ago. I wish you could have interviewed her.”
The Little Lions finished the season 21–4.
“The qualities that made our team successful were dedication and commitment to showing up and playing the game that we all loved. We didn’t let outside issues get in the way of our time together as a team. We were all friends on the field and supported each other even when someone didn’t have their best game,” Shelly shared.
Coach Barry Rossman was the architect behind the program’s excellence. “Coach Rossman practiced us hard and we were not done until specific plays, signs, and fundamentals were understood by everyone. Sometimes that meant doing the same play over and over again until it was done correctly,” Shelly said.
Coach Rossman’s teams reached the PIAA State Finals five times, winning titles in 1978 and 1986. His team reached the finals again in 1988, Shelly’s senior year.
The 1986 Little Lions’ season was a testament to preparation, trust, and the belief that when you play as a team, big things can happen.
In the front row, from left to right are Coach Barry Rossman, Shelly Marshall, Judy Johns, Penny Smith, Kristen Vanderbush, Judy Moyer, Tammy Franks, Stephanie Nelson, Savi Wyland, and Michelle Foust.
In the back row from left to right are Manager Jill Bates, Melissa LaMorte, Kelly Winkleman, Kristen Willey, Lynette Kidder, Paige Willey, Lynn Bebe, and Christine Hughes. Assistant Coach Galen McWilliams is not pictured.