ROCHESTER, Mich. - The Golden Grizzlies softball team was well represented this summer as Oakland student-athletes Alyssa Balcom and Maraina Smith earned a championship title in the Scenic City Collegiate League (SCCL).

"All college season I knew I wanted to keep playing into the summer and when I discovered the SCCL, I knew it'd be the perfect fit," said Balcom. "I'm so thankful for this experience, getting to go out and compete daily in a league full of girls who share the same deep passion for this game as I do. I was lucky enough to be put on the Smoky Mountain Rain, with 12 of the best people, and eventual champions! I made friends with our teammates and opponents from states ranging from Utah, Wisconsin, Oklahoma, Florida and everywhere in between. Together we all built lasting friendships and memories."

During the summer ball stint, Balcom and Smith helped the Smoky Mountain Rain capture the top spot, making big differences at the plate and in the circle as they added to their playing experience, sharpening their skills for the upcoming 2026 season with Oakland.

"At first I wasn't sure what to expect because there was so much unknown, but this experience has brought me so much joy," added Smith. "Being able to experiment and compete with different pitches, playing multiple positions and hitting daily brought back my love for the game. The new adventures and friends I've made was such a great experience. If I could go back in time I would have done it every summer."

Both Smith and Balcom look to build on solid 2025 seasons, where Smith earned a career-best 6.09 ERA in 11 appearances with a pair of wins. Balcom saw an expanded role in 2025 as well with Oakland, earning seven wins in the circle and getting chances in the batter's box as well, batting .278 with 14 RBI.