LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, PA. – April 28, 2025 – For the first time in program history, the Lincoln University (Pa.) softball team has earned back-to-back postseason appearances, advancing to the CIAA Championships for the second consecutive season. The Lions head into the 2025 tournament with strong momentum, finishing third in the CIAA North Division after posting a 9-5 conference record. Lincoln will travel to Orangeburg, S.C., to compete for the title from May 1-3.
Under the leadership of head coach Zadaisha Waddell, Lincoln has embraced the season-long mantra of "changing the narrative" — and the results have followed. With an energized roster and a focus on closing games strong, the Lions are poised to make a deep run in the postseason.

Leading the charge are senior pitcher Tia Brown (Newark, N.Y./Newark), standout junior outfielder Aliya Rose (Lutherville, Md./Maryvale Preperatory), and sophomore utility player Jordin Cathey (Long Beach, CA/Gahr High School), each bringing consistency and spark both offensively and defensively. Their leadership and high-level play have been key factors in Lincoln's success this season.

The Lions will open tournament play against Winston-Salem State University on Thursday, May 1, with first pitch scheduled for 10 a.m..

Head Coach Zadaisha Waddell reflected on the team's achievement heading into the postseason:
"This season was a great opportunity for us to change the narrative and show the conference and those that support us that Lincoln can defy the odds, especially by getting the opportunity to compete for a conference championship for a second year in a row. That is very huge for the players, the university, and the softball program. We are making history in real time and setting the standard for our program and institution. I'm definitely proud of my team and I'm excited to see how we compete in this year's championship. I have a group of seniors that have always wanted to attend championships — I've been fortunate to see them compete for it two years in a row."

The full CIAA Championship schedule can be found on the CIAA Conference website, and any updates regarding Lincoln's schedule and results will be posted on the Lincoln Athletics official website along with livestream links for all games being played during the tournament.

The Lions look to continue their historic season and make a strong push toward a championship in Orangeburg.