2026 NSIC Softball Preseason Coaches' Poll

1/23/2026 10:00:00 AM

Augustana picked in NSIC Softball Preseason Coaches' Poll

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BURNSVILLE, Minn. - For the seventh consecutive season, Augustana University was chosen as the favorite in the NSIC Preseason Softball Coaches’ Poll. This marks the eighth time (2012, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 & 2026) that the Vikings have been selected by the coaches to win the league. The Vikings, the five-time defending regular season champions,  amassed 221 points and 12 first place votes (coaches cannot rank their own team). Winona State was second with 202 points and the other four first place votes. 

The preseason coaches’ poll is based off each coach ranking each team with the top team receiving 15 points, second 14, third 13, etc.

The 2026 NSIC Softball season gets underway with non-conference play on January 30, while the 28-game NSIC schedule is set to begin on Saturday, March 21.

The 2026 NSIC Softball Tournament will have a 10-team single elimination format over four days played at Bowden Field in Sioux Falls, South Dakota on May 6-9, 2026; 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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#6 Desi Cuevas (OF/P, 5-3, Jr., L/L, Omaha, Neb. / Millard North HS) - Augustana University
  • 2025 Easton/NFCA All-America Scholar-Athlete
  • 2025 D2CCA All-Central Region First Team
  • 2025 NFCA All-Central Region
  • 2025 All-NSIC First Team
  • Hit .378 with 13 home runs and 47 RBI
  • Stole 20 bases and scored 58 runs 
  • Racked up a .438 on base percentage and .694 slugging percentage
Desi is an all-around softball player. She has speed, is very strong defensively and can change the game with one swing of the bat. She has elite hand-eye coordination. Although quiet and reserved by nature, her presence and leadership is felt on and off the field by her teammates. Desi is an extremely humble player and person.
Head Coach Gretta Melsted
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#26 Izzy Howe (RHP, 5-4, R-Jr., R/R, St. Charles, Ill. / St. Charles East HS) - Winona State
  • Started in 30 games and appeared in 34 games
  • Pitched in 190.2 innings with 207 strikeouts with a .2.28 ERA
  •  Went 21-7 with a .172 opponent batting average
  • 2025 NSIC Softball All-Tournament Team member
Izzy is a key contributor to what we believe can be a talented and deep pitching staff. Her confidence and determination are essential qualities that have helped lead this team over the past couple of years. She is a fearless competitor who has pitched in a lot of big games and big game moments throughout her career.
Head Coach Greg Jones

COACHES' QUOTES & PLAYERS/PITCHERS TO WATCH

 AUGUSTANA UNIVERSITY

Our team is a fun mix of talented and experienced players and young, talented inexperienced players. It will be fun to watch this team grow with each game. I love how hard they have worked both on the field and in the weight room this year. We will look like a traditional Augustana Softball team with some surprise strengths.
Head Coach Gretta Melsted
Desi is an all-around softball player. She has speed, is very strong defensively and can change the game with one swing of the bat. She has elite hand-eye coordination. Although quiet and reserved by nature, her presence and leadership is felt on and off the field by her teammates. Desi is an extremely humble player and person.
Head Coach Gretta Melsted
As part of the pitching staff that had the second lowest ERA in the country last year, Helene has been a vital part of our team's success. Whether it has been on the mound or watching the game as a coach would, Helene has helped our team in all facets of the game. As a senior it is now her to shine and I'm excited to see her attack her senior year. A goofball by nature, Helene, is an extremely pleasant and enjoyable human to be around.
Head Coach Gretta Melsted

BEMIDJI STATE UNIVERSITY

What excites me most about this year’s team is the blend of new energy and continued growth within our program. We brought in a large freshman class that adds depth, competitiveness, and enthusiasm, while also being mindful that we have big shoes to fill from last season. Our returners have made significant strides both physically and mentally, and they’ve embraced greater responsibility within the team. That combination of hungry newcomers and more confident, experienced returners gives us a group that’s eager to compete and continue raising the standard of our program.
Head Coach Jordan Petersen
Aubrey is the kind of student-athlete every program hopes to have leading its team. As a senior and team captain, she has earned the respect of her teammates through her consistency, work ethic, and the way she carries herself every day. She has truly grown into her role both on and off the field, setting the standard in practice, leading by example in competition, and being a steady, trusted presence in the locker room. Aubrey’s leadership, accountability, and team-first mentality make her someone our team leans on.
Head Coach Jordan Petersen
Danica is a pitcher who sets the tone for our staff with her toughness and reliability. She’s a true workhorse, self-driven, highly competitive, and someone who holds herself to an extremely high standard every time she steps in the circle. Danica is very team-oriented, putting the success of the group ahead of individual recognition, and her accountability and preparation make her a trusted presence for both her teammates and coaches.
Head Coach Jordan Petersen

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, ST. PAUL

We're excited about the upcoming season to see our young team continue to progress and take strides towards a successful 2026 campaign. We took some lumps early last year with an extremely young team playing a tough schedule, but I felt we were playing our best softball at years end, we expect that to continue at the beginning of this season. We had a great fall season on the field and in the classroom and I look forward to seeing us perform starting in February.
Head Coach Bob Bartel
Alexis has put together two great campaigns together for CSP and we look for her to continue that trend. We'll be moving Alexis to shortstop this year adding more responsibility on the defensive side. She's definitely ready for that challenge and we believe she'll continue to be a terror on the offensive side. We look for Alexis to continue to lead by example, both in games and at practice as she continues her fabulous career on the field and in the classroom.
Head Coach Bob Bartel
We're looking for Emmy to have her best season yet as she continues to progress through her career. Her first year was cut short due to injury but she was able to comeback in her second year to lead us in most every pitching category. Her determination to get better and win games will help us every time she's in the circle. Emmy takes that determination into the classroom as well.
Head Coach Bob Bartel

UNIVERSITY OF JAMESTOWN

We have some good players and have had the experience of changing conferences in the past few years. We are looking forward to meeting the new programs and bringing a competitive brand of softball into the NSIC. The experience will be great for our students and our university.
Head Coach Kevin Gall
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Maddie is an all-around athlete. She will adapt well to the style and play we will face this season.
Head Coach Kevin Gall
Hope is a solid and dependable pitcher that possesses toughness that you want your pitcher to have.
Head Coach Kevin Gall

UNIVERSITY OF MARY

The 2025-2026 Marauders softball team is very hardworking and focused. There is a confidence within this team that surpasses our previous seasons. Our players are hungry for success and determined to make it happen.
Head Coach Amy Schmeckpeper
Nelly is our quiet leader who leads by example each day. Last year we converted her to outfield and she quickly became one of our best. She has positively impacted our program since her freshman year, and we can’t wait to see how she’ll finish her career as a marauder.
Head Coach Amy Schmeckpeper
Arria is one of our most competitive and gritty players. She always wants the ball and works hard every day to improve. She has had tremendous growth these last two seasons and we are excited to see how she will perform in the circle this year.
Head Coach Amy Schmeckpeper

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA CROOKSTON

I am most excited to see all the work we have put in this fall, in live action. We have a vast amount of experience returning this year, along with a few incoming players who are key contributors to the competitiveness this team brings. These players are eager to contribute to and be part of the continued growth and success our program has built over the past few years. I have been very fortunate to have players who look to compete and grow each and every day, and I am excited to watch their dedication and hard work pay off during the upcoming season.
Head Coach Ashton Sangster
Hannah is a very high-character player. She embodies many characteristics that not only make her the player that she is, but the leader that any team would be lucky to have. She leads our team through her confidence, maturity, work ethic, competitiveness, and the true desire to see each of her teammates succeed. Hannah is an offensive threat on the field and can make a difference in multiple positions on defense. She is also an excellent student who looks to compete in the classroom and on different committees throughout campus. Her love for the game and her teammates is what drives this team.
Head Coach Ashton Sangster
Delaney is a major asset to our team; she leads in the circle with a confident presence that brings a sense of calmness to the players behind her. She learned many valuable lessons in the pitching experience she got last year as a freshman, which has brought immense growth to both her and our staff. She is a player that you can always trust, who brings great energy, and has proven to be a vital part of this program. I am very excited to see what she can accomplish this season.
Head Coach Ashton Sangster

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA DULUTH

We will miss our senior class of 2025 for sure, but this year we are excited by the depth of our pitching staff, some added speed and athleticism with our newcomers, and a core of our roster that continue to improve. Above all, we are thrilled by the way this group has taken important strides in their work, their preparation, and the way they support one another. We expect to be very balanced in all phases of the game and very hard to play against.
Head Coach Nat Wagner
Kendal is as complete a player as one will find. She checks off all the boxes as an exceptionally high -character athlete. She excels in the classroom, has forged elite athleticism in the weight room, and delivers on the diamond, combining potent power at the plate with superb defensive skills behind the plate. Kind, thoughtful, and diligent, Kendal leads by example in all aspects of student life. She is our big dog.
Head Coach Nat Wagner
Allyssa is high-energy, passionate competitor, who loves to take the ball in big moments. She has worked hard to develop her arsenal and become a power pitcher at this level, and we expect her to lead us in the circle with her competitive fire and presence. Alyssa exudes a love of softball, and will lead a young staff this year with her dynamic energy.
Head Coach Nat Wagner

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY, MANKATO

I'm excited about the chemistry of this team. Their commitment to one another on and off the field has been fun to watch develop over this past semester. We have some returners that have done a fabulous job being servant leaders. Our newcomers have jumped in right away ready to work. I look forward to the blend of returners and newcomers representing Minnesota State softball this season.
Head Coach Kristle Wolcott
Gianna brings a veteran presence to the middle of our lineup and defensive staple for our infield. She is a no nonsense player that goes about her business and expects excellences from everyone around her. Gianna's competitive nature impacts every game we play.
Head Coach Kristle Wolcott
Maddie has battled on the mound for us the past two years redefining her craft along the way. We will lean on her leadership with a young pitching staff and even keel mentality to manage any situation thrown at us. Maddie's growth mindset and tenacity will help her excel this season.
Head Coach Kristle Wolcott

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY MOORHEAD

What excites me most about this year’s team is the combination of new competitive energy and valuable experience across the roster. This group competes every day with a clear purpose and is fully committed to pushing each other to improve. There’s a strong sense of accountability and trust, and the players take pride in the standard they set for one another. Their chemistry, work ethic, and competitive mindset make this an exciting team to watch as the season unfolds.
Head Coach Vanessa Kellems
Lexie is the kind of student-athlete every program hopes to build around. She leads first by example—her work ethic is consistent, intentional, and visible every single day. Whether it’s practice, conditioning, or preparation away from the field, Lexie sets the standard and holds herself accountable, which naturally elevates those around her. Beyond her performance, Lexie is a steady and respected presence on the field, she communicates with purpose, supports her teammates, and isn’t afraid to step up in difficult moments. Her leadership is grounded in trust, humility, and a genuine commitment to the team’s success.
Head Coach Vanessa Kellems
TC is a competitor in every sense of the word. In the circle, she brings intensity, confidence, and a relentless drive to get better, which is why she’s a pitcher you always have to watch. She prepares with purpose, competes with composure, and embraces pressure moments rather than shying away from them. Off the field, TC is equally impressive as a teammate and person. She’s accountable, coachable, and deeply invested in the success of the group. Her energy is contagious, and she consistently raises the standard through her work ethic and mindset. TC represents the type of student-athlete who not only impacts games but also helps shape the culture of the program.
Head Coach Vanessa Kellems

 MINOT STATE UNIVERSITY

I am excited about the level of experience we return to the field this season. We have a group of battle tested players who have played in meaningful games and have grown a lot over their time her at Minot State. I am also excited about the new talent we have added to our team. We have a mix of transfers as well as first year players who have shown they are ready to make an impact on our team.
Head Coach Sal Rodriguez
Anna has been a model of consistency both offensively and defensively. Over the past couple of seasons Anna has learned to effectively communicate with and lead our pitching staff. She has shown not only growth from her freshman season, but also the ability to be consistent. We look forward to seeing her leverage her experience this season and be a key leader for our team.
Head Coach Sal Rodriguez
Katie has been a fantastic addition to our team and pitching staff. As a JUCO transfer Katie brings lots of experience and has been a valuable leader on our team. Katie is the type of player that leads by example and makes the team and her teammates better with her daily energy and effort.
Head Coach Sal Rodriguez

 NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY

This group of NSU student-athletes is competitive, connected, and fully committed to the process. The position depth across our roster this year has elevated daily competition and pushed our athletes to continually raise the standard. What makes this group special is their cohesion and team-first mentality, along with the pride they take in working hard on and off the field. I am incredibly proud of the people in our program and excited to see their commitment and hard work translate this season.
Head Coach Kaley Ness
Alicia brings tremendous value to our program as both a person and a player through her determination, competitiveness, and strong work ethic. As a freshman this fall, she has already stepped into larger roles within our program, which speaks volumes about her dedication and commitment to our program’s growth and success. Her passion and team-first mentality continue to elevate those around her. Her presence and competitive drive reflect both the leader she is becoming and the standards we expect within our program.
Head Coach Kaley Ness
Kenzie’s competitiveness and softball IQ, paired with her passion for the game, make her a valuable member of our pitching staff. Returning from injury, she has shown resilience and determination in her approach, attacking each opportunity with confidence and purpose. Her command in the circle and understanding of the game instill trust and confidence in the players behind her, making her a steady and reliable presence in the circle.
Head Coach Kaley Ness

UNIVERSITY OF SIOUX FALLS

I’m incredibly excited about what we’ve built here in such a short time. We have a powerful blend of freshmen and upperclassmen who are creating a strong family bond and trust within our program. This year’s group will look different than years past — we’ll compete with passion, stay united, and battle to the very end.
Head Coach Tommy Downs
Meghan is the definition of a go-getter. She shows up every day hungry to compete, eager to learn new drills, and fearless in the way she attacks the game. Meghan’s impact extends beyond the field — she excels in the classroom and is an outstanding teammate who lifts everyone around her. We look forward to watching her cap off her USF career with the same drive, spark, and impact that make her truly special.
Head Coach Tommy Downs
“Maddi is one of the fiercest competitors on our roster especially when she’s in the circle. She takes tremendous pride in her craft and is always pushing herself to raise the bar and add to that strikeout column. Off the field, Madi’s personality is just as impactful she’s one of the funniest people in the room, always ready with a quick wit or perfectly timed comment that keeps our team loose and connected. Madi brings competitiveness, confidence, and joy to everything she does and she’s ready to leave her mark on this game.
Head Coach Tommy Downs

SOUTHWEST MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

This group is somewhat young but mixed with experience. There are a few new faces, but this team has embraced the process from day one. Their willingness to work, learn, and push each other has made preseason incredibly productive. They show up with purpose, and that mindset is setting the tone for what we believe will be an exciting season of growth.
Head Coach Bailey Bouman
Kram has been a consistent piece in our program since she got to campus. She is a true Mustang, excellent in the classroom, active in the community and on campus, does the little things, works hard, and really sets the tone of our offense at the top of the order. We're really excited to see where this year takes her!
Head Coach Bailey Bouman
Jordyn had a great freshman year in a closing role. We are looking forward to seeing her step into a new role with the majority of our innings thrown last year graduating it is going to be fun to see where the year takes her. She is driven, hardworking, and a true competitor who wants to be the best version of herself.
Head Coach Bailey Bouman

ST. CLOUD STATE UNIVERSITY

We are extremely excited for the upcoming season. While we graduated some key pieces from last year's team, the foundation is strong and this group is ready to take the next step. We are excited for the challenges and opportunities ahead this spring.
Head Coach Mitchell Roberts
Brooke is a strong leader on and off the field, and her success has never been accidental. She puts in the work, holds herself to a high standard, and has earned every achievement along the way. She is exactly the type of high character player every program hopes to have.
Head Coach Mitchell Roberts
Macey brings a consistent work ethic and attitude to everything she does. As a JUCO transfer, she has already left a strong mark at St. Cloud, and her legacy continues to grow. We are excited to see what Macey will do in her senior campaign.
Head Coach Mitchell Roberts

WAYNE STATE COLLEGE

We are excited about this year’s team and look forward to seeing how they plus on the season we were able to put together last year. We are returning an excellent core of student athletes who bring a lot to the field, the circle, and the batter’s box. We’ve also added some new blood that we believe gives us that much more of an edge. This is a fun team to coach, and I am proud of the work they have put in so far. We are motivated toward the goals we have set for this year and can’t wait to get started.
Head Coach Christy Warnock
Emilee had a tremendous record-breaking sophomore season. She is a steady force on our team, bringing about consistent production offensively and doing her job to near perfection in the outfield. She is disciplined, hardworking, and funny – the very best type of teammate. I believe Emilee’s humility and drive will continue to show up for her in production this next year.
Head Coach Christy Warnock
Kennadi is an extremely gifted student athlete on all sides of the ball but really stepped up on the mound last year. She is one of the most effective and most collaborative pitchers in the region and we really believe last year’s success was just the beginning. Able to keep hitters guessing in a multitude of ways, it is her competitive spirit and workhorse attitude that are her greatest strengths. On top of it all, she’s an awesome human being that cares tremendously for her teammates and this program.
Head Coach Christy Warnock

WINONA STATE UNIVERSITY

We are looking forward to building on a successful season from last year. I love the makeup, energy, and connectiveness of this group. We will have to continue to develop and grow throughout the season as our league continues to turn out elite softball teams and tremendous depth of talent. I look forward to the opportunities, growth, and challenges of this season.
Head Coach Greg Jones
Bryn’s passion for the game and leadership on and off the field radiate through her. She is a tone setter for us with her tremendous energy and work ethic. Bryn’s influence goes beyond her stats and performance as she elevates the team by modeling integrity, resilience, and a genuine love of the game.
Head Coach Greg Jones
Izzy is a key contributor to what we believe can be a talented and deep pitching staff. Her confidence and determination are essential qualities that have helped lead this team over the past couple of years. She is a fearless competitor who has pitched in a lot of big games and big game moments throughout her career.
Head Coach Greg Jones
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