Lincoln University, PA – March 24, 2026 - The Lincoln University (PA) softball team is set to compete in the CIAA Round-Up this week in Raleigh, North Carolina, taking on six conference opponents over a three-day stretch.
The Round-Up presents a pivotal opportunity for the Lions to establish themselves within the conference while continuing to grow under a young roster and evolving style of play.
Head coach Zadaisha Waddell emphasized the importance of staying true to the team's identity heading into the weekend.
Lincoln enters the Round-Up focused on maintaining its style of play, adjusting from a slower-paced approach while competing against faster-paced opponents and staying disciplined in all phases.
The Lions will be tested early, with key matchups against Claflin and Winston-Salem State highlighting the weekend slate.
In the circle, Ashlynn Sherman (Coatesville, PA/Coatesville High School) and Jordin Cathey (Long Beach, CA/Gahr High School) are expected to lead, while freshman Breylin Gamble (Menifee, CA) continues to emerge as a standout presence. Behind the plate, Cici Bullock (Frederick, MD) provides consistency defensively, while Aliya Rose (Lutherville, Md./Maryvale Preperatory) anchors the outfield in center.
Offensively, Lincoln will rely on a balanced lineup featuring returning standout Ashley Stringer (Coatesville, PA/Coatesville High School), first baseman Hayley Lawson (Laurel, DE), and Ajah McDowell (Atlanta, GA/Druid Hills High School). Freshman Samiah Smith (Greenbelt, MD) has added a powerful presence, while Chloe Foster (Dresher, Pa./Upper Dublin) continues to provide depth to a young and developing roster.
The Lions' freshman class has been a key factor this season, bringing energy and growth to the program as the team continues to build under Waddell in her third year at the helm.
As Lincoln prepares for the Round-Up, the message remains clear compete together and play to win.
"We're coming ready to play to win and play as a team," said Waddell. "This is a young group, but we've seen growth and success within our style of play, and we're excited to compete."
Lincoln opens play on Thursday, March 26 against Johnson C. Smith at 3:30 p.m., followed by Claflin at 6:00 p.m. The Lions return Friday to face Shaw (3:30 p.m.) and Fayetteville State (6:00 p.m.) before closing the weekend Saturday against Winston-Salem State (11:00 a.m.) and Livingstone (4:00 p.m.).
CIAA Round-Up Schedule (Raleigh, NC)
March 26 – vs. Johnson C. Smith (3:30 PM)
March 26 – vs. Claflin (6:00 PM)
March 27 – vs. Shaw (3:30 PM)
March 27 – vs. Fayetteville State (6:00 PM)
March 28 – vs. Winston-Salem State (11:00 AM)
March 28 – vs. Livingstone (4:00 PM)
