WINONA, Minn. – Coming off one of the most successful seasons in program history since the 2000 national championship season, the Saint Mary's softball team is ready to step back into the spotlight as the 2026 season approaches.
The Cardinals went 44-7, undefeated in conference play in 2025, captured the MIAC championship, hosted both the NCAA Division III Regional and Super Regional tournaments, and battled their way to the NCAA World Series. With just four seniors lost from that historic squad, Saint Mary's returns a veteran roster poised for another exciting campaign.
Even before the first pitch is thrown, the Cardinals are already making waves nationally, earning a No. 5 ranking in the NFCA preseason poll. The team brings back All-American and Joan Joyce Utility Player and Pitcher Makayla Steffes, along with six All-Conference honorees.
Entering his 11th season at the helm, 2025 MIAC Coach of the Year John Tschida is confident in this group's potential.
"They're great kids who listen, learn, and push each other," said Tschida. "We have strong leaders and great teammates, and that gives us a real opportunity to do something special."
Saint Mary's will open the season with its annual indoor slate at the Mankato Dome on Feb. 14–15 and Feb. 21–22 before traveling to Georgia for the prestigious Lead-Off Classic March 6–8. The invite-only tournament features some of the nation's top programs and marks a return to a competition the Cardinals last won in 2001 under Hall of Fame coach Tschida.
"Our underclassmen will get an early look at the speed and power of elite collegiate softball," Tschida said. "It helps us develop quickly and sets the standard for the level we want to compete at."
The Cardinals will play six games across three days at the Classic.
Saint Mary's opens home and conference play on Wednesday, April 1, hosting St. Catherine in a doubleheader beginning at 3:30 p.m. The Cardinals will also welcome Augsburg on Saturday, April 4, at 1:00 p.m., and wrap up nonconference action at UW-La Crosse on April 8. Their final home game is set for Tuesday, April 21, against Hamline.
The MIAC Tournament is scheduled for May 7–9.
"With so many returners, we're able to move faster through our systems and build momentum earlier than usual," Tschida added.
The countdown to first pitch is officially on.
