The Saginaw Valley State University softball team is gearing up for action as they head into the 2026 season.
The Cards are coming back with all eyes on them as they were recently ranked fifth in the 2026 National Fastpitch Coaches Association/GoRout NCAA Division II Preseason Coaches Poll. Last season, the team finished with a record of 49-15 and won both the Midwest Regional and Super Regional games.
Although the team has seen success in the past, head coach Ryan Schalk does not want the pressure to get to them.
“The hardest part of the preseason so far has been maintaining the standards and expectations of the program, being that we did not graduate any seniors last season,” he said. “There is an advantage to having pretty much the same roster back as last year, but we also want to make sure that we aren’t too comfortable to the point where we aren’t putting the work in that’s needed to get back to that point.”
For Schalk, the key to a successful team happens, not only in practice, but also before the preseason begins.
“The level of talent and the quality of the student-athletes we recruit are by far the biggest factors in the success of our season,” he stated. “After that, teaching them how to play in a system to maximize our chances for success by understanding game strategy, instilling confidence, and then letting them play the game without micromanaging them on the field.”
Emily Beckas, senior utility player for the team, commented on the team’s preparation for the upcoming season.
“The cardinal softball preseason consists of individualized position work to ensure individual readiness, team strategy, film sessions to ensure that as a team we are mentally prepared, and intense work in the weight room to build strength and prevent injuries,” she said. “Our goal every day is to work hard, love what we do, and be grateful for every moment.”
With the season running from Feb. to June, the student-athletes have a lot of time to build relationships with each other on and off the field.
“As a senior, I am looking forward to being able to lace up my cleats one last season surrounded by a group of my best friends,” she mentioned. “The memories that we have made as a team and the life lessons we will take away from the game after we graduate are those that will last a lifetime.”
Beckas is ready to make her final season an unforgettable one.
“We are ready for the challenges ahead, and the experience we have returning to the field this season is like nothing the university has ever seen before,” she stated. “With 2 All-Americans, Macy Irelan and Aalana Kimble, along with the entire 24-man roster from last year returning, [and] the addition of 2 new freshmen, I recommend you come out and see a game this year and witness Cardinal history.”
The Cardinals will take the field Feb. 6, where they will head to Davie, Florida, to compete against Nova Southeastern.
