COLUMBIA — Wanna watch the Lady Volunteer softball team without needing to travel all the way to Knoxville? Local can take the short hour-and-a-half drive south to Columbia to watch an NCAA clash between the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers and the Eastern Kentucky University Colonels. That game will be part of the Midstate Classic Collegiate Softball Tournament set to return to Maury County on March 18.

Hosted by the City of Columbia, this annual event will take place at the Ridley Sports  Complex, one of the state’s premier recreational venues. The tournament is expected to attract fans from across the state. 

This year’s tournament will feature three matchups. The action begins with a high school showdown as the Columbia Central Lions face the Spring Hill Raiders at 10 a.m., followed by the Columbia State Community College Lady Chargers taking on the Calhoun Community College Warhawks at 1:30 p.m. The day’s highlight will be an NCAA matchup between UT and EKU at 5:30 p.m. Both the University of Tennessee Lady Vols and Eastern Kentucky University Colonels are both coming off 40-win seasons last year.  According to organizers, this marks the most impressive records the city has seen from teams participating in the Midstate Classic to date.

“The Midstate Classic has become a tradition in  our community. UT and Columbia State have been a part of this event since 2014, and it’s wonderful to see the continued growth and excitement surrounding the tournament. It’s a great opportunity for local residents and visitors alike to enjoy high-quality collegiate softball right here in Columbia,” said City Manager Tony Massey.

The University of Tennessee Softball team, coached by Karen Weekly, will return to the Midstate Classic following a 2024 cancellation due to weather conditions.

“We are  thrilled to be back in Columbia for the Midstate Classic in 2025. The hospitality from the community and the support  from Lady Vol fans make this event truly special. We’re looking forward to a great matchup with Eastern Kentucky, and  we know it will be an exciting game. The City of Columbia does an outstanding job organizing this event, and it’s always  a highlight of our season,” Coach Weekly said.

The Midstate Classic promises to be a day full of exciting softball and community spirit, making it an event that fans won’t want to miss. Gates will open at 7:30 a.m the day of the event. General admission is $10, which grants access to all three games. Complimentary ADA transportation will be available before, during, and after the event to accommodate all guests. Tickets are $10 each and available for purchase online now at columbiatn.gov. You can also call them at 931.388.8119. •

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