Carolina Blaze launches inaugural softball season in Durham: 'This is huge for us'
DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- North Carolina's first permanent, city-based professional women's softball team is set to make its debut as the Carolina Blaze opens its inaugural season on Tuesday, becoming the only Athletes Unlimited Softball League franchise on the East Coast.
The Blaze is one of six AUSL teams nationwide, and its arrival marks a milestone for the state's growing softball community. RHP Karlyn Pickens, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 AUSL College Draft, said she is eager to take the field in her home state.
"I'm excited to see how many people come out for opening day," said Pickens, who is from Weaverville, in Buncombe County.
Pickens said returning to North Carolina as the sport gains momentum has been meaningful.
"I think all of this just came from me loving a game, loving competing, and so just to be able to take this game that I just love playing and to see where it's taken me and how far it's grown as well has just been really amazing and just full of joy," she said.
Infielder Ana Gold, a former Duke standout, is also returning to familiar ground as she begins her professional career.
"I'm just so happy to be back," Gold said. "I think the fans are loyal and they're passionate and they're just here to watch in sports, have a good time, and cheer us on. And we really feel the support from them."
Softball participation has surpassed 9 million players nationwide, and college viewership continues to break records.
Discover Durham President and CEO Susan Amey said the region's established softball culture made it a natural fit for a professional franchise.
"I think there's a foundation there that you just can't deny," Amey said. "We've got collegiate teams in the area with Duke and UNC who are known for their diamond sports, and then I just think we're a city that just is welcoming sports and especially welcoming women's sports."
Officials said Durham's passionate fan base and strong softball tradition helped secure the franchise, with top programs at Duke, UNC, and NC State contributing to the region's reputation.
Local leaders also expect the team to bring economic benefits. With more than half of AUSL fans being parents, they anticipate increased hotel stays, restaurant traffic and tourism. The league's presence also gives Durham a national platform as it looks to expand the use of existing sports facilities.
"This is huge for us," Amey said. "Durham has a couple of older facilities that are not fully utilized, and so we have been working to move forward ... take a look at these older facilities and how can the community invest in those so that they can be fully utilized and support some of these growing and emerging sports."
The Carolina Blaze will open its season against the Portland Cascade at Smith Family Stadium at 5 p.m. on Tuesday. The stadium is at 4 Brodie Gym Drive in Durham.
