The Wayne State University softball team is set to begin its 2026 season at the Lincoln Memorial Tournament in Harrogate, Tennessee. The Warriors, who finished last season with a 24-32 record, will open play against the host Lincoln Memorial Railsplitters on Saturday at noon, followed by a game against Bluefield State later that afternoon. The tournament concludes for Wayne State with two games on Sunday: an early matchup against Tiffin and a second contest versus Lincoln Memorial.
Wayne State competes as part of NCAA Division II and is a member of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC). The program operates out of Detroit, Michigan and participates in intercollegiate athletics as part of the university’s athletic offerings. More information about the team can be found on its official website: https://wsuathletics.com/sports/softball.
In past meetings, Wayne State has played Lincoln Memorial twice, securing a win in 2015 but falling in extra innings last year despite notable performances from Briana Lee and Kate DeWitt. The Warriors have not previously faced Bluefield State. Against Tiffin, Wayne State holds a historical advantage with 26 wins to Tiffin’s 19 since 2001; however, Tiffin has won their last four encounters.
Key returning players for Wayne State include sophomore third baseman Kate DeWitt, who hit .335 last season and earned Second Team All-GLIAC honors; Elly Koopman, recognized as Honorable Mention All-GLIAC with 40 RBI; junior catcher/first baseman Molly Hool for her defensive contributions; senior second baseman Maddie Hool; sophomore shortstop Hunter Near; and junior outfielder Mia Hool. Other returning members are Abby Barnes and Kennedy Cole. Five freshmen join this year’s roster along with junior college transfers Lexi Mielke and Julia Sandles.
On the pitching staff, returnees Sydney Long and Hayden Batton bring experience alongside Koopman. Newcomer Kyra Shadduck joins after two successful seasons at Lansing Community College.
Lincoln Memorial enters Saturday’s game with a 3-3 record after several cancellations earlier in their schedule. Hanna Bogoski leads their offense while Brooke Strickland heads their pitching staff under head coach Ritchie Richardson.
Bluefield State will play its first game of the year during this tournament after weather-related cancellations affected its start to the season. Last year they finished with a 14-30 record under head coach Chelsea Holliday.
Tiffin arrives at the tournament having split four games so far this season following their G-MAC regular-season championship in 2025 under coach Paige McMenemy.
After completing play in Tennessee, Wayne State will travel to compete in the Lewis Dome Invitational scheduled for February 19–21.
