CHICO, Calif. – Chico State softball honored its senior class Saturday and closed the 2026 season on a high note, splitting the day while securing a 3-1 series win over No. 12 Cal State East Bay. The Wildcats finish the season at 19-25 overall and 13-19 in CCAA play.

In a fitting finale, Chico State battled through tight contests all day and rallied in Game Two to send its seniors off with one final victory at Wildcat Softball Field.

Game 1: Chico State 2, CSUEB 3

The Wildcats struck early, as Aiyana Curry doubled to bring home seniors Brianna Swihart and Kennedy Gustin for a 2-0 lead.

Senior Amelie Valdez delivered her 15th complete game of the season, recording five strikeouts in a strong outing.

Despite the early advantage, the Pioneers mounted a comeback, taking the lead with a run in the sixth inning to edge Chico State.

The Wildcats applied consistent pressure, forcing Cal State East Bay to use three different pitchers, but ultimately fell just short.

Game 2: Chico State 5, CSUEB 4

The Wildcats flipped the script in the finale, rallying to secure a comeback win and cap the season with a victory.

Senior Itzell De Los Rios led the early offense, singling up the middle in both the first and third innings to drive in three runs for Chico State.

Brianna Swihart helped tie the game in the fourth inning, reaching on a misplayed ball in center field that allowed Ali Lewis to score. Swihart advanced to third on the error, setting the stage for Aiyana Curry, who delivered the go-ahead RBI single up the middle.

In the circle, Bella Tavares, Kylie Loertscher and Amelie Valdez combined to secure the win. Valdez closed out the final three innings in her last appearance for Chico State, earning her 11th win of the season.

Valdez finishes her career ranked sixth in the CCAA with a 2.49 ERA and 106 strikeouts this season. Tavares also closed out a strong campaign, ranking 10th in the conference with a 3.08 ERA, 76 strikeouts and three shutouts.