The two Shelby County League rivals got through their respective regional semi-final matches to set up Friday Finals reprise from a year ago - Loramie (below) vs. Russia for the chance to go to Akron next week.

The Russia Raiders secured a firm grip on the SCAL after throwing out three Fort Loramie runners at the plate, and getting another in a rundown. Russia's 7-1 win was the 11th straight for the Raiders, who debuted at No. 2 in the D-IV state poll. Read Greg Billing softball this coming Saturday.

Some sage motivation at the right time resonated with Tri-Village's players over the summer and echoed loudly as an explanation for their ability to extend their own state title dreams, while ending Botkins' attempt for a second straight championship. Bruce Hooley writes.

The Pleiman brothers put Botkins in front early and the Trojans' sharp-shooting backcourt took the baton from there in a comfortable regional semifinal win that moves the defending Division IV champs within one win of a return trip to UD Arena. Bruce Hooley writes the story of Wednesday Press Pros.