TL HANNA ATHLETICS: 2025-26 YEAR IN REVIEW

The 2025-26 school year will be remembered as one of the most successful in the history of T. L. Hanna Athletics. Across every season, Yellow Jacket student-athletes demonstrated the commitment, resilience, sportsmanship, and competitive excellence that define our tradition of success. This year, more than 1,000 student-athletes competed across 23 sports programs, making T. L. Hanna one of the most active and successful athletic departments in the state. The depth of talent throughout the department was evident as 12 teams finished among the top eight in South Carolina in their respective sports, while 33 Yellow Jacket athletes earned All-State honors or were selected to Senior All-Star rosters. Just as impressive, T. L. Hanna student-athletes excelled in the classroom, combining for an outstanding 4.03 athletic department grade point average.

The year began with tremendous momentum as fall sports teams delivered memorable performances throughout the region. Football energized the community with another region championship and their sixth 10 win season in the last nine years. The Yellow Jackets dominated Greenville in a second round playoff win before falling at home 43-41 in the state quarterfinals.

The Yellow Jackets competitive cheer program saw their long streak of region championships come to an end as they earned a second-place finish at the Region Championship. However, the Jackets rallied at the SCHSL State Championships, where they secured an impressive sixth-place finish in the state.

The girls tennis program also put together an outstanding postseason run and advanced all the way to the state championship match for the second year in a row. Melina Moncada-Lema and Emery Tripamer turned in outstanding individual seasons and qualified for the state singles tournament, where they both won matches and fell just short of all state honors.

Girls golf added another remarkable chapter to an already storied program. The team captured its second consecutive state championship, establishing itself as one of the premier programs in South Carolina. Leading the way was Marissa Scaletta, who claimed the Individual Girls Golf State Championship, capping off an extraordinary season and earning her place among the school's all-time greats. Serra Erlenkeuser and Sierra Schulze turned in all state performances for the second time in their careers and will help lead a strong group that will seek to win a third state title in 2026-27.

The swimming program also enjoyed an exceptional season. Both the boys and girls teams earned top-eight finishes at the SCHSL State Championships, showcasing the depth and strength of the program. Senior Emily Heintz capped off one of the most decorated careers in school history by earning her ninth All-State performance.

The girls cross country team continued its upward trajectory by qualifying as a team for the state championship meet. Their accomplishment highlighted the growth of the program and the commitment of a talented group of runners who competed at a high level throughout the season.

As the seasons changed, T. L. Hanna's winter sports programs continued the winning tradition. Basketball and wrestling teams battled through highly competitive regions in the regular season. The boys basketball team enjoyed a strong season, finishing second in a highly competitive region and positioning itself among the area's top programs. The girls basketball team continued to build a solid foundation for future success, showing growth and determination throughout the season while laying the groundwork for continued improvement.

The wrestling program delivered one of the most historic accomplishments of the year. The Yellow Jackets captured the Region Championship, just the second region title in school history, marking a milestone achievement for the program. Malachi Miles and Jackson Scanlon earned All-State honors individually for TL Hanna to help cap the amazing season.

The spring season showcased some of the most remarkable accomplishments in school history and solidified the 2025-26 year as one of the finest ever for T. L. Hanna Athletics.

The softball team made history by advancing to the state semifinals for the first time in school history. Throughout the postseason, the Yellow Jackets knocked off three-time defending state champion Catawba Ridge to advance to the state semifinals where they fell in close contests to eventual state champion Indian Land.

On the baseball diamond, the Yellow Jackets delivered one of the most memorable seasons in recent memory. T. L. Hanna advanced to the state championship series for the first time since 1988, ending a 37-year wait and reigniting excitement throughout the community. The team's remarkable postseason run was highlighted by walk-off wins over Eastside to win the district championship and Indian Land to fight off elimination in game 2 of the Upper State Championship series and eventually win the series in game 3.

The boys golf program continued its outstanding success in the spring with a 3rd-place finish in the state championship. TL Hanna fell short of winning their 4th state championship in a row, but dominated the regular season of play in the state winning the prestigious Southern Cross tournament and the Upper State Championship, a first since 2005. Erik Erlenkeuser captured the Individual Boys Golf State Championship for the second year in a row and junior Bennett Scaletta turned in an All-State performance for the third time in his career.

Track and field athletes also delivered championship-caliber performances on the state's biggest stage. Mekhi Malcolm earned the Individual State Championship in the boys shot put, smashing the state record in the event that had stood since 1989. AJ Heaton added to the championship haul by winning the Individual State Championship in the boys 110-meter hurdles, showcasing elite speed, technique, and determination.

One of the brightest emerging stars of the spring season was freshman Elle Bailey, who earned All-State honors in both the 100-meter hurdles and the 400-meter hurdles. Competing against some of the state's top athletes, Bailey delivered an outstanding freshman campaign and established herself as one of South Carolina's premier young track and field talents. Her accomplishments highlight a promising future for the Yellow Jacket girls track and field program.

The girls lacrosse team enjoyed tremendous success in what was expected to be a rebuilding year for the team. The Yellow Jackets won a playoff game for just the second time in school history and advanced to the state quarterfinals, a testament to the growth and competitiveness of the program.

The boys soccer team also delivered a memorable season, competing at a high level throughout the year and earning a home playoff victory over Hillcrest by a score of 3-0. The postseason win highlighted the team's talent, discipline, and ability to perform under pressure.

The success of the 2025-26 athletic year would not have been possible without the unwavering support of parents, families, teachers, administrators, alumni, boosters, and fans. The passion and pride shown throughout the year created an environment where student-athletes could thrive.

As we celebrate the accomplishments of the 2025-26 school year, we also look toward the future with excitement and optimism. The foundation built by this year's athletes, coaches, and supporters ensures that the tradition of excellence will continue for years to come.