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Roughrider Softball Puts Together Complete Team Effort in 2026 Season
Posted: May 12, 2026

Roughrider Softball Puts Together Complete Team Effort in 2026 Season

The Crowder College Roughriders wrapped up the 2026 softball season with a strong and balanced performance, showing depth at the plate, speed on the bases, and reliable pitching throughout a demanding NJCAA Division I schedule. Crowder finished the year 36‑26‑1 overall and 15‑10 in conference play, earning the No. 3 seed in the Region 16 Tournament and establishing themselves as one of the region’s most competitive programs.

Offensive Firepower and Consistency

Crowder’s offense was a major strength all season, posting a .327 team batting average, 434 runs, and 41 home runs across 63 games. The Roughriders also stole 189 bases, consistently putting pressure on opposing defenses and creating scoring opportunities.

Several players delivered standout individual seasons:

  • Karlee McCallister led the lineup with an outstanding .440 batting average, nine home runs, and 48 RBIs, while also stealing 34 bases, making her one of the most dynamic all‑around players in the region.
  • Madelief Croonen put together another elite year, hitting .399 with 51 RBIs, nine home runs, and a .495 on‑base percentage, while anchoring the defense with a .972 fielding percentage.
  • Layla Pasley emerged as a power threat, batting .384 with 11 home runs and 47 RBIs, combining speed and power from the middle of the lineup.
  • Josie Henson paced the team in hits with 75, scored 58 runs, and stole a team‑high 39 bases, showcasing her speed and consistency at the top of the order.
  • Callie Cooper drove in a team‑best 61 RBIs, batting .383 while handling significant defensive responsibilities with a .972 fielding percentage.

Pitching Anchors the Season

In the circle, the Roughriders posted a 3.81 team ERA, highlighted by dominant performances from the pitching staff.

  • Olivia Hemme led the way with 16 wins, a 2.75 ERA, and 198 strikeouts over nearly 186 innings, while also recording five saves, making her the staff’s workhorse.
  • Tessa Groeneveld added 12 wins with a 3.74 ERA, giving Crowder a dependable one‑two punch in the rotation and helping stabilize the staff during conference play.

Strong Defense to Match

Defensively, Crowder finished with an impressive .929 team fielding percentage, committing fewer errors than their opponents and turning timely double plays. Croonen, Cooper, Pasley, and Hemme all posted fielding percentages above .945, reinforcing the team’s defensive reliability.

Looking Ahead

With a potent offense, experienced pitching, and strong defensive fundamentals, the 2026 Roughriders set a solid foundation for postseason success and future seasons. Crowder’s combination of veteran leadership and emerging contributors made this year a testament to the program’s consistency and competitiveness in NJCAA softball.