By: Brian Stanley & Madie Brink
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – University of Sioux Falls softball standout Maddi Duncan has been named to the 2026 NFCA Division II Pitcher of the Year Watchlist, the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) announced.
Duncan is one of 118 student-athletes nationally and among a select group representing the Central Region to earn a spot on this year's watchlist, which recognizes the top pitchers across NCAA Division II. The list is compiled by the NFCA Division II All-American Committee and highlights the nation's premier arms heading into the final stretch of the season.
Dominant Season in the Circle
Duncan has put together a remarkable 2026 campaign, emerging as one of the top pitchers in the NSIC, the region, and the NCAA. Through 19 appearances, she owns an 11-5 record with a 1.28 ERA across 109.1 innings pitched.
The senior right-hander has been a workhorse for the Cougars, tallying 17 starts, 15 complete games, and four shutouts while limiting opponents to a .156 batting average.
Her ability to miss bats has been a defining factor, racking up 158 strikeouts on the season — one of the top marks in all of NCAA DII softball — while allowing just one home run all year.
Duncan has also shown consistency and control in high-leverage moments, helping guide USF to a strong start in NSIC play and anchoring a pitching staff that owns a 2.13 team ERA.
About the Award
The NFCA Division II Player and Pitcher of the Year awards recognize the top individual performances across the country and will be announced on May 27, one day prior to the start of the NCAA Division II National Championships.
All student-athletes remain eligible for the award regardless of watchlist inclusion.
Up Next
Sioux Falls continues NSIC play this weekend as the Cougars look to build on their 7-1 conference start. USF will head to Minnesota State on Friday for a reverse site doubleheader beginning at 2pm and 4pm followed by a doubleheader with Winona State on Saturday at 12pm and 2pm in Rochester, Minnesota.
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