By: Clint Neumann
BURNSVILLE, Minn. – The University of Sioux Falls softball team was selected 10th in the 2026 NSIC Preseason Softball Coaches' Poll, as announced by the league office. The Cougars totaled 96 points in the voting, positioning themselves for a season focused on growth, depth, and competitive consistency in one of NCAA Division II's strongest conferences.
Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference preseason favorite Augustana University earned the top spot for the seventh consecutive season, collecting 221 points and 12 first-place votes. Winona State followed closely in second with 202 points, while Minnesota State, Minnesota Duluth, and St. Cloud State rounded out the top five. Coaches ranked each team with the top program receiving 15 points, decreasing by one point per position.
Under first-year head coach Tommy Downs, Sioux Falls enters the season with renewed energy and identity. The Cougars return a blend of experienced upperclassmen and impactful newcomers, with an emphasis on competitiveness, connection, and resilience. Downs expressed confidence in the foundation his group has built in a short time, highlighting the chemistry and trust forming within the program as key ingredients for the year ahead.
"This year's group will look different than years past — we'll compete with passion, stay united, and battle to the very end," said Downs. "I'm incredibly excited about what we've built here in such a short time."
Players to Watch
Meghan Jochimsen | OF | Senior | L/R | Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.
Senior outfielder Meghan Jochimsen returns as a steady presence in the lineup after a productive 2025 campaign. Jochimsen hit .288 with a .371 on-base percentage and .405 slugging percentage, driving in 20 runs while swiping seven bases. Her ability to apply pressure offensively and cover ground defensively makes her a key piece in Sioux Falls' everyday lineup.
"Meghan is the definition of a go-getter," said Downs. "She shows up every day hungry to compete, fearless in the way she attacks the game, and she lifts everyone around her. We're excited to see her cap off her USF career with the same drive and spark that makes her truly special."
Maddi Duncan | RHP | Senior | Lincoln, Neb.
Senior right-hander Maddi Duncan anchors the Cougars' pitching staff entering her final season. In 2025, Duncan logged 149.0 innings, posted a 2.90 ERA, and struck out 173 batters while holding opponents to a .207 average. Known for her intensity in the circle and relentless competitiveness, Duncan provides Sioux Falls with a proven arm capable of handling big moments.
"Maddi is one of the fiercest competitors on our roster," Downs said. "She takes tremendous pride in her craft and is always pushing herself to raise the bar. Off the field, she brings so much joy and personality to our team — that combination of confidence and connection makes her special."
Up Next
Sioux Falls opens the 2026 season with non-conference action on Saturday, January 31 through Sunday, February 1, traveling to Branson, Missouri for games against Upper Iowa, Arkansas Monticello, Arkansas Tech, and McKendree at the Branson RecPlex. NSIC play begins on March 21, with the conference tournament scheduled for May 6–9 in Sioux Falls, S.D.
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