The stage is set for an unforgettable finale to the 2026 Alabama high school softball season. From May 18-22, the state's best teams will converge on Choccolocco Park in Oxford, all chasing the coveted Blue Map Trophy. This five-day tournament promises heart-pounding action, dramatic comebacks, and championship glory.

After months of intense competition, the field has been narrowed down to the top two teams from four regional tournaments held in Montgomery, Gulf Shores, Albertville, and Florence. Now, it's win-or-go-home time. Classes 4A and 6A kick off the festivities on Monday, with Class 3A closing out championship play on Friday. Every pitch, every swing, and every defensive gem will matter as these athletes leave it all on the field.

One story that adds extra emotion to this year's tournament is Emily Needham, who is carrying her father's legacy in every pitch during her senior season. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the deep personal connections that make high school sports so special.

Here's a look at the full schedule and bracket structure for all seven classifications, starting with the early rounds:

Monday - Thursday Game Flow (All Classes)

Game 5: Loser of Game 1 vs. Loser of Game 2, 12:30 p.m.
Game 6: Loser of Game 3 vs. Loser of Game 4, 12:30 p.m.
Game 7: Winner of Game 1 vs. Winner of Game 2, 12:30 p.m.
Game 8: Winner of Game 3 vs. Winner of Game 4, 12:30 p.m.
Game 9: Loser of Game 7 vs. Winner of Game 6, 4 p.m.
Game 10: Winner of Game 5 vs. Loser of Game 8, 4 p.m.
Game 11: Winner of Game 7 vs. Winner of Game 8, 4 p.m.
Game 12: Winner of Game 9 vs. Winner of Game 10, 10:45 a.m.
Game 13: Loser of Game 11 vs. Winner of Game 12, 11 a.m.
Game 14: Winner of Game 11 vs. Winner of Game 13, 4 p.m.
Game 15: Winner of Game 14 vs. Loser of Game 14 (if necessary), 7:30 p.m.

Sample Opening Matchups (Class 2A Example)

Game 1: G.W. Long vs. North Sand Mountain, 10:45 a.m.
Game 2: Southeastern vs. Sumiton Christian, 10:45 a.m.
Game 4: Cleveland vs. J.U. Blacksher, 10:45 a.m.
Game 5: Loser of Game 1 vs. Loser of Game 2, 1:30 p.m.
Game 6: Loser of Game 3 vs. Loser of Game 4, 1:30 p.m.

Whether you're a player, coach, or fan, this is the week where legends are made. Gear up with your team's colors and get ready for five days of top-tier softball action in Oxford. Who will rise to the top and claim the Blue Map Trophy?