Northwest Wayne News

Wayne State University softball team has announced the addition of two transfer players for the upcoming 2026 season. Head coach Nicole Tines, who is preparing for her fifth season with the Warriors, and assistant coach Hannah Kelly have recruited outfielder Julia Sandles and pitcher Kyra Shadduck to join the team.

"We are looking forward to the additions of Julia and Kyra," said Tines. "Both student-athletes exemplify what it means to be a WSU student-athlete - strong in the classroom, wonderful young ladies and both will help strengthen our lineup on the field. Julia and Kyra bring a skill set that will be great additions to our roster and we feel that along with our returners and incomers we have gotten stronger. We are excited to continue to grow as a program."

Julia Sandles, originally from Macomb, Michigan, transferred from Missouri-St. Louis where she played 38 games last season. She was primarily positioned in center field and left field. Sandles ended her last season with a .903 fielding percentage and led her team in stolen bases.

Kyra Shadduck joins Wayne State from Lansing Community College. The DeWitt, Michigan native compiled an impressive record as a pitcher over two seasons, achieving 49 wins against 15 losses. Her efforts earned her multiple honors including being named to the NJCAA Region XII Division II All-Region Team.

Both players are expected to contribute significantly to the team's performance in their respective roles on the field.