The start of the 2026 softball season will feature a roster highlighted by 10 incoming freshmen, five talented sophomore transfers, and six returning sophomores from the team that finished ninth at the 2025 NJCAA National Championship Tournament in Oxford, Alabama.
Following a strong fall season, the group has come together as a cohesive and competitive unit that will be tested throughout the ACCAC schedule.
The six returners are led by First Team ACCAC and All-American Harli Noriega, First Team ACCAC pitcher Maddison Peter, outfielder Olivia Deford, and shortstop Kyla Kim.
The incoming transfer class adds immediate impact with outfielder Eva Issitt, infielder Katelyn Larney, pitcher Aubree Lovo, catcher Piper Mills, and infielder Kennedy Carr.
With a deep and experienced roster, the program looks forward to a strong 2026 campaign. Phoenix enters the season ranked No. 11 in the nation in the preseason poll, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting year ahead.
Phoenix will open the 2026 season on Saturday, January 24, hosting Ottawa University–Arizona in a pair of home scrimmages scheduled for 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
