MURFREESBORO, N.C. -The Triangle Collegiate Softball Classic Foundation announced Thursday afternoon that Chowan Head Softball Coach Junior Bailey has been named the recipient of the 2026 Beyond the Spotlight Legacy Achievement Award.

Founded in 2008 and now entering its 19th year, the Triangle Collegiate Softball Classic, operated by the Triangle Collegiate Softball Foundation, has grown into the nation's largest NCAA softball single-weekend tournament, hosting more than 30 teams annually while promoting excellence and growth in collegiate softball. This year, the Foundation partnered with the King and His Court Historical Preservation Foundation to honor two softball coaches with this prestigious award. Coach Bailey was one of two coaches chosen for this year's award. 

Triangle Collegiate Softball Classic founder Charlie Dobbins had the opportunity to work with Coach Bailey this past summer working with the USA Softball All-American's Junior Program (U12). "We are so excited to recognize Coach Bailey," said Dobbins. "Junior is an awesome coach and an awesome human."

Coach Junior Bailey has devoted more than two decades to the advancement of softball as a coach, administrator, and leader at the high school, junior college, and NCAA levels. Over his career, he has guided programs to sustained success, including more than 400 collegiate victories, multiple conference championships, and historic postseason achievements. Bailey's impact extends beyond wins, as he has consistently emphasized student-athlete development, mentoring numerous all-conference performers while maintaining strong academic standards across his programs. 

Since arriving at Chowan in 2023, Bailey has elevated the Hawks softball program through competitive growth, player development, and a renewed culture of excellence. In 2025, he led the Hawks to their first-ever Conference Carolinas Championship appearance and the program's highest win total since 2019. Under his leadership, Chowan student-athletes have achieved historic milestones on the field while also excelling academically, earning multiple CSC Academic All-District honors and Conference Carolinas Presidential Honor Roll recognitions. Bailey has fostered individual excellence, guiding standout performances and record-setting achievements within the program. His impact at Chowan reflects a foundation built for long-term success and continued growth.

Athletic Director Patrick Mashuda commented on Bailey's honor, "I'm excited for Junior to receive this award. It's a great accomplishment for him.The University is proud to recognize him as a whole. It's a testament to Junior's career and to the program that he is building here at Chowan."

Chowan is proud to celebrate and honor Coach Junior Bailey as he enters his fourth season with Chowan and looks to capitalize on the previous season's success with the program heading into the 2026 season. 

Coach Bailey will receive a custom Mizuno glove to commemorate the honor.