After more than two decades of waiting, the Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) softball team is finally heading back to the NJCAA World Series—and they're bringing a former Cheboygan star with them.

Libby VanFleet, a standout from Cheboygan, has been a key force in the Raiders' historic run this season. The team punched their ticket to the national tournament for the first time since 1998, ending a 26-year drought that had fans and players alike buzzing with excitement.

VanFleet's journey from Northern Michigan to the junior college powerhouse has been nothing short of inspiring. Known for her clutch hitting and steady presence on the field, she's helped transform GRCC into a team that's not just happy to be at the World Series—they're ready to compete.

This season, the Raiders have shown incredible resilience, battling through a tough schedule and proving they belong on the national stage. For a program that hasn't seen this level of success in nearly three decades, the trip to the World Series is a massive milestone. It's a testament to the hard work of the players, the coaching staff, and the unwavering support of the GRCC community.

As the team prepares to take the field in the NJCAA World Series, all eyes will be on VanFleet and her teammates. Can they carry this momentum and make a deep run? If their season is any indication, the Raiders are ready to make some noise.

For fans of softball and underdog stories alike, this is a moment to savor. Whether you're cheering from the stands or following from home, one thing is clear: GRCC softball is back, and they're swinging for the fences.