2025 NSIC Softball Preseason Poll

1/23/2025 10:00:00 AM

Augustana picked in NSIC Softball Preseason Coaches' Poll

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BURNSVILLE, Minn. - For the sixth consecutive season, Augustana University was chosen as the favorite in the NSIC Preseason Softball Coaches’ Poll. This marks the seventh time (2012, 2020, 2021,  2022, 2023 & 2024) that the Vikings have been selected by the coaches to win the league. The Vikings, the four-time defending regular season champions,  amassed 196 points and all 14 first place votes (coaches cannot rank their own team). Concordia-St. Paul was second with 174 points while Minnesota State was third with 163 points and the other first place vote.  

The preseason coaches’ poll is based off each coach ranking each team with the top team receiving 14 points, second 13, third 12, etc.

The 2025 NSIC Softball season gets underway with non-conference play on January 31, while the 28-game NSIC schedule is set to begin on Saturday, March 22.

The 2025 NSIC Softball Tournament will have a 10-team single elimination format over four days played at Bowden Field in Sioux Falls, South Dakota on April 30 - May 3, 2025; hosted by Augustana University. The tournament will be streamed on the NSIC Network, with tournament passes or single game access available for purchase.  

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#44 Alexis Monty (IF, So., R/R, Stillwater, Minn. / Stillwater Area HS) - Concordia University, St. Paul
  • 2024 NFCA Third Team All-American
  • 2024 D2CCA All-American Honorable Mention
  • 2024 NFCA All-Region First Team
  • 2024 D2CCA All-Central Region First Team 
  • 2024 All-NSIC First Team 
  • 2024 NSIC Freshman of the Year
  • 2024 NSIC All-Defensive Team
  • -Three-time NSIC Player of the Week 
  • TUCCI/NFCA Division II Player of the Year Watchlist 
  • Slashed .486/.536/.669
  • Had the best batting average in a season in school history which also ranked fourth in the nation
  • Broke the school record with a 30-game hitting streak
  • Hit the seventh most doubles in the country with 22, breaking the school record
  • Ranked first in the NSIC in runs per game scoring 56 total runs on the season
Alexis had a tremendous freshman season which led to many accolades throughout the season. She handled her success like a true experienced veteran. She has found her place on our team as a player that loves to compete and is a truly a great teammate, she leads by example and is vocal in a positive, uplifting manner. Alexis also performs even better in the classroom.
Head Coach Bob Bartel
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#50 Grace Glanzer (RHP, Sr., Sioux Falls, S.D. / Roosevelt HS) - Augustana University
  • 2024 NFCA and D2CCA All-America First Team 
  • 2024 NSIC Newcomer and Pitcher of the Year
  • 2024 NFCA Regional Pitcher of the Year 
  • 2024 NFCA and D2CCA All-Region First Team
  • Threw two perfect games and one no hitter 
  • In 36 appearances, went 28-5 in 228.1 innings with 199 strikeouts to only 31 walks
  • Named Pitcher of the Week four times and Wilson/NFCA DII Pitcher of the Week twice
  • Named to the TUCCI/NFCA DII Player/Pitcher of the Year Watchlist
Grace is a pitcher like no other. She is a true student of the game and her talent speaks for itself. She is one of the best pitchers I've ever coached in my career. What sets Grace apart besides her pitching talent, competitiveness, and softball IQ is who she is as a person. She is extremely personable and puts others at ease around her. She makes everyone around her better. An elementary education major, she has the ability to relate to young and old and in-between. She's a well-rounded, fun-loving person who is a joy to be around and to coach.
Head Coach Gretta Melsted

COACHES' QUOTES & PLAYERS/PITCHERS TO WATCH

 AUGUSTANA UNIVERSITY

I am very excited for this year's team. Although we graduated an outstanding senior class we have picked up where we left off. We have a deep pitching staff and return a lot of talented position players and hitters. This team has a lot of motivation and is very driven. I like how they want to uphold the tradition and standards of Augustana Softball. They are fun to work with and have high expectations of themselves and each other. They make me proud.
Head Coach Gretta Melsted
Andrea is an incredible athlete. She has natural athleticism but she combines it with not only an incredible work ethic where she has complete and utter attention to detail but with a fiercely competitive nature. Her grit and determination is outstanding and she has competitive fire off the charts. Defensively she would go through a wall in right field to make a catch and offensively she is a serious threat at the plate. She is a joy to coach, a great student, and most importantly she is a great human being with high character and integrity.
Head Coach Gretta Melsted
Grace is a pitcher like no other. She is a true student of the game and her talent speaks for itself. She is one of the best pitchers I've ever coached in my career. What sets Grace apart besides her pitching talent, competitiveness, and softball IQ is who she is as a person. She is extremely personable and puts others at ease around her. She makes everyone around her better. An elementary education major, she has the ability to relate to young and old and in-between. She's a well-rounded, fun-loving person who is a joy to be around and to coach.
Head Coach Gretta Melsted

BEMIDJI STATE UNIVERSITY

We return eight starters this season, led by one of the most experienced senior classes in our program’s history. Alongside this seasoned group, we’re excited to welcome an exceptional freshman class that adds valuable depth and new energy. With this combination of experience and fresh talent, we’ve created the highly competitive environment needed to take our program to the next level. We couldn’t be more thrilled about the potential of this group and the intensity they bring to the field.
Head Coach Jordan Petersen
Jackie is as dedicated to her craft as anyone I have coached at Bemidji. Her work ethic and commitment to the game are unique. Jackie is disciplined and detail orientated both offensively and defensively. She continues to push herself to new heights all while playing the game with grit and passion!
Head Coach Jordan Petersen
Danica has developed a strong understanding of what it takes to compete in the NSIC. She is the most compassionate and loving teammate, bringing lighthearted energy to a game often defined by failure, a mindset that is invaluable in softball. Her ability to maintain a focused, short-term mindset will be crucial in key game situations.
Head Coach Jordan Petersen

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, ST. PAUL

We have talented team with good depth made up with a mixture of experience and youth on our roster. We're excited to see how it comes together both on and off the field. We thought our fall season was a success on and off the field as we start coming together as a team. We will continue to strive to become a close knit squad that loves and plays for each other no matter the outcome.
Head Coach Bob Bartel
Alexis had a tremendous freshman season which led to many accolades throughout the season. She handled her success like a true experienced veteran. She has found her place on our team as a player that loves to compete and is a truly a great teammate, she leads by example and is vocal in a positive, uplifting manner. Alexis also performs even better in the classroom.
Head Coach Bob Bartel
Erica had a tremendous 2024 season leading our team in the circle. She was called upon to have a larger role than anticipated and responded with great success due to her grit and high compete level while also battling some lingering injuries. Erica is a true competitor and great teammate that shows up each and every practice and game to give her best. She's also proven to be great in the classroom.
Head Coach Bob Bartel

UNIVERSITY OF MARY

This 2024-2025 Marauder's team is full of strong returners and many impactful newcomers. They have grinded this fall and are hungry for success this spring. Our players are ready to take on the ups and downs that come with season and are excited to compete together to win some ball games.
Head Coach Amy Schmeckpeper
Sariah is our competitive firecracker who brings energy and intensity to our team. She has grown both mentally and physically this past year, and we can't wait to see how she will positively impact our lineup this season.
Head Coach Amy Schmeckpeper
Hannah is one of the hardest workers and the most resilient player on our team. Her growth last season has made her a major asset for us in the circle and we are excited to see how her grit and determination pay off this spring.
Head Coach Amy Schmeckpeper

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA CROOKSTON

I am excited to see how we can build off last year's progress. We have a good mix of seasoned returners and skilled incomers who are very eager to get started. I am especially excited since I have taken a new role this year and look forward to seeing the successes of our players and program. I have seen many great things throughout the fall and look forward to seeing how that translates to our season.
Head Coach Ashton Sangster
Whitnee works hard both on and off the field and brings consistency to our team. She is a quiet leader who primarily leads by example, but has gained confidence in being a vocal leader coming off of last year's season. Her aggressive mentality and competitive nature has gained her the respect of her teammates and she has shown vast commitment throughout her career in helping improve and push our program forward.
Head Coach Ashton Sangster
Alexa took a huge step forward last year as a leader on the field and was a significant part of our pitching staff. The work ethic and mentality she has is what has earned her the trust of her teammates and is what they feed off of on the field. She is self-less, coachable, and loves to see her teammates succeed; Alexa is truly a team-player and embodies all of the characteristics that we hope for in a Golden Eagle softball player.
Head Coach Ashton Sangster

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA DULUTH

While we graduated some really good ballplayers last year, this group is determined to prove themselves and make their own mark on our program. They want to play Bulldog softball – to be a team hard to play against, grinding out tough at bats, being opportunistic on the base paths, and playing clean defense. The players have worked hard this fall to forge this identity as a tight-knit, gritty team. We are excited to share the journey together and see where our hard work takes us.
Head Coach Nat Wagner
Nicole leads our program through her competitive drive, her work ethic, and a mature, confident presence. A complete hitter, she poses a dynamic offensive threat and excels at multiple positions on the infield. Her drive to excel extends to the classroom as well where she is a high honors premed student and a recognized leader on campus. Above all, Nicole exudes a love for the game and relishes the chance to play Bulldog softball. She is our big dog.
Head Coach Nat Wagner
A hometown product of Duluth, Maddy takes the ball in the circle with a quiet and fierce determination. She has worked incredibly hard to take that next step as a young leader of our staff, and we are excited to see that work pay off this year. A humble and gracious teammate, Maddy will battle for her team every pitch this year.
Head Coach Nat Wagner

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY, MANKATO

I am excited to see how our upper-class men's experience meshes with our under-class men's potential. I think a key component of our success will be our pitching staff's ability to pitch as a unit. I feel that defense will be one of our biggest strengths because of the experience we return. Offensively, we will use a mix of speed and power to generate runs.
Head Coach Lori Meyer
Sailor joins our team as a utility player that will provide additional experience on the mound, in the outfield and in the offensive game. Sailor has had a very successful career prior to MSU and comes in with NJCAA accolades from Kirkwood CC where she helped lead them to a runner up finish in the NJCAA tournament last year. This past summer she played in the Northwoods League Softball for the Mankato Habaneros and helped them win the inaugural league championships. Sailor exemplifies the word student-athlete as she gets it done in the classroom and on the ballfield. Her success comes from her work ethic as she is willing to put in extra time on her own and she has a fierce competitive spirit.
Head Coach Lori Meyer
Maddie is the only pitcher on our pitching staff that has significant D2 mound experience, as a freshman she had over 100 innings and 27 appearances. The pitching experience that Maddie got as a freshman last year provided her valuable lessons and allowed her to grow as a pitcher and develop as a leader for our staff. I am excited to see what she can do this year on the mound.
Head Coach Lori Meyer

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY MOORHEAD

I'm excited to work with these elite athletes as a new coaching staff, not only to see their hard work translate into success but also to foster a culture of growth, resilience, and teamwork. The upcoming season brings the promise of thrilling challenges, opportunities to push boundaries, and the chance to build meaningful connections both on and off the field. I’m eager to witness the team’s dedication, passion, and talent shine as we strive to achieve our shared goals.
Head Coach Vanessa Kellems
Avery enters her senior season as a preseason player to watch, bringing leadership, experience, and unmatched determination to the field. Known for her versatility and consistent performance, Avery has been a cornerstone of the team throughout her career. As a senior, she’s not only expected to deliver game-changing moments but also to set the tone for the team with her work ethic and competitive edge. Whether it’s at the plate, in the field, or rallying her teammates, Avery is poised to make this season one to remember.
Head Coach Vanessa Kellems
Teagan, this season, is already making waves on the field. With her impressive skill set, competitive spirit, and poise beyond her years, Teagan is poised to be a standout performer. Her ability to command the mound, combined with her relentless work ethic and drive for excellence, makes her a key player to watch. As she continues to refine her craft, there's no doubt she will be a crucial asset to the team this season.
Head Coach Vanessa Kellems

 MINOT STATE UNIVERSITY

This year we have a good balance of returning players from last season's team along with a competitive group of new faces. This group has pushed themselves hard in the off season to build on the success of last season while building the identity of this season's team. This year's team has competed well and built a strong comradery while pushing each other to be the best they possibly can be, so we are excited to see it play out on the field.
Head Coach Sal Rodriguez
Anna made a major step forward in her game last season as she went from being a role player to a full time starter. It was great to see her build confidence over the course of the season. Anna has also really grown her leadership role and was selected by her teammates to be one of their leaders. Our staff is excited to watch Anna continue to trend upward in all aspects of her game.
Head Coach Sal Rodriguez
Reegan has continued to showcase her heart and determination with each start. She has the burning desire to compete in any setting. It doesn't matter if it is a fall scrimmage or her third start NSIC Tournament, Reegan will bring the same passion and energy to each outing.
Head Coach Sal Rodriguez

 NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY

This year’s softball team is composed of driven and dedicated student-athletes who are a privilege to coach. Our athletes are passionate and fully committed to the growth and success of our program. They’ve dedicated a tremendous amount of effort this fall, and I’m excited to see that commitment translate this season.
Head Coach Kaley Ness
Emma’s dedication, both on and off the field, truly embodies what it means to be a NSU Wolf. Her relentless desire to improve, combined with her infectious passion for the game, makes it a joy to watch her compete. Her positivity and unwavering commitment to the sport not only makes her an outstanding teammate but also a remarkable leader within our program.
Head Coach Kaley Ness
Abby adds immense value to our team with her leadership, passion, energy, and determination. Her strong softball IQ, coupled with her commanding presence on the mound, instills confidence and a sense of calm in the players behind her. As Abby concludes her eligibility after this season, she will leave a legacy on our program, serving as an inspiration for future players to look up to and strive towards.
Head Coach Kaley Ness

UNIVERSITY OF SIOUX FALLS

This year's team is stepping into this season with a bold new identity, ready to turn the page and set a higher standard of excellence. We have a rejuvenated roster featuring a dynamic mix of experienced returners, talented transfers, and eager newcomers. This team brings fresh energy and a renewed sense of purpose. The program has undergone a complete rebuild, establishing a foundation rooted in accountability, unity, and competitive excellence. Our players are hungry to prove themselves and make their mark in the league. This season represents not just a comeback but a commitment to setting the tone for the future of USF softball.
Head Coach Erin Bly
Alannah is a player who leads by being fearless, aggressive, and fiercely competitive. She thrives under pressure and tackles every play with unrelenting intensity. Her aggressive approach sets the tone for the team. Whether diving into a fence for a tough catch or delivering in clutch moments, Ali's best leadership quality is that she exudes confidence and a competitive fire that demands attention. A two-time All-Conference recipient and a captain for this year's squad, Alannah's blend of talent, experience, and competitiveness makes her a special player to watch!
Head Coach Erin Bly
Maddi exemplifies consistency, dedication, and an unshakable competitive spirit. Her reliability is unmatched as she never misses a practice and approaches every game with the same unwavering confidence and consistency. Fearless and steady under pressure, Maddi is a calming force to her teammates. Her even temperament ensures she remains focused and composed no matter the situation. She leads by example by giving the best performance she can every time she takes the field. A captain for this year's squad and a true competitor, she inspires her team not with words, but through her actions. Maddi was a 13-game winner for us in her first year as an NSIC pitcher and we are excited to see what she does in year two!
Head Coach Erin Bly

SOUTHWEST MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

We have a good mix of young players and returners who have been playing for a long time. This group has been working hard, they are competitive, and hungry to see where this season can take them.
Head Coach Bailey Bouman
Abby is a four year starting shortstop with a very high game IQ. She has been a leader for our team since she stepped onto campus as well as an excellent student in the classroom.
Head Coach Bailey Bouman
Karlie has been throwing significant innings since her freshman year and continues to get better each year. She is a great student in the classroom and knows what it takes to throw in the NSIC and we are excited to see what this year has in store for her.
Head Coach Bailey Bouman

ST. CLOUD STATE UNIVERSITY

We are returning five starters and feel confident about the players stepping into the roles we’ve lost. In addition, we’ve added depth in the circle, which strengthens our overall pitching staff. With solid improvements in all areas, we believe we have the right pieces in place to make a strong push and improve our standing in conference play.
Head Coach Mitchell Roberts
Maggie brings a presence to the plate and will be a cornerstone of our offensive production this year. Her experience, professionalism, and strong work ethic have set her up for success this spring. We’re excited to see what her senior year has in store and the impact she’ll make on the field.
Head Coach Mitchell Roberts
Justyce brings an invaluable quality to our team. Her uniqueness is key to her consistent success. With her competitiveness and mindset, she excels in high-pressure situations, making her a perfect fit to come in late and close out games. We are excited to see the things she will achieve this year.
Head Coach Mitchell Roberts

WAYNE STATE COLLEGE

Coming off a year of extreme youth, it’s exciting to see what a more mature and experienced Wayne State team can achieve. Our approached to goals and training this year is slightly different than in past years, but we believe we will see that compound success over the next five months. We have also been able to utilize a new training facility this year which has been incredible. Overall, we're looking forward to getting started and seeing what unfolds in the 2025 season.
Head Coach Christy Warnock
Jordyn had a strong freshman season, but it was only the beginning of what she can achieve. Her versatility in the box sparks a lot of options for our offense and her composure brings stability to our outfield. She is also an exceptional leader and continues to grow and embrace that role for us. Though still early in her collegiate campaign, she’ll be a force for us and exciting to watch this season.
Head Coach Christy Warnock
Sami is headed into her senior year and looking to make it her best. Every year she continues to sharpen her pitches and the way she approaches opponent offenses. The reliability she maintains in the circle is a great strength of hers and her ability to field her position adds to our defense. We look forward to Sami’s ability to bring balance and variety to our pitching staff.
Head Coach Christy Warnock

WINONA STATE UNIVERSITY

We will be young this year, but I am excited about the opportunities. As we replace our entire infield and some very strong pitchers and offensive players, we will have to rely on playing with toughness and earning our success. This league continues to turn out elite softball teams and tremendous talent. I look forward to the growth and challenges of the upcoming season.
Head Coach Greg Jones
Sam has been a vital and valuable part of the Warrior Softball Family since she walked on campus. Her play on the field and loyalty off of it embody all that is good about Winona State Softball. Sam is a tremendous leader and individual both on and off the field. She has already graduated and passed her Nursing Boards, but has dedicated herself to coming back for her final year to play the game she loves.
Head Coach Greg Jones
Izzy is a passionate student/athlete both on the field and off. She continues to grow and develop as a pitcher. We are excited for her experience and leadership to help encourage the advancement of the rest of our pitching staff. Izzy gained valuable experience last year, and was a tremendous competitor in the circle throughout the season.
Head Coach Greg Jones
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