Softball receiving votes in NAIA Preseason Coaches’ Poll

UHV's Brianna Strother, left, hugs Kaylle Lopez, right, following a walk-off single against Louisiana Christian in the Red River Athletic Conference Tournament at Champions Sportsplex in Alexandria, Louisiana, on Sunday, May 5, 2024. (Sam Fowler/UHV Athletics)

November 6, 2024

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The UHV Softball team got some recognition in the NAIA Preseason Coaches' Poll announced on Wednesday.

The Jaguars (33-14 in 2024) received 54 votes in the first rankings of the season, making them the third Red River Athletic Conference school in the poll, joining defending National Champion and No. 1-ranked Our Lady of the Lake and No. 21 LSU Alexandria.

"This is a testament to the work our athletes put in last year and we're appreciative of the recognition," said head coach Lindsey Ortiz, entering her 12^th season at the helm. "This year's squad is excited to use that success as a building block to continue representing UHV on a national stage."

UHV reached the NAIA Tournament for the ninth time in the program's 16-year history last year and eclipsed the 30-win mark for the 13^th time.

The Jaguars return NAIA First Team All-American Kenzie Chambers and NFCA second team All-American Claire Blinka, as well as NFCA second team All-Region selection Kaylle Lopez and All-RRAC second team honoree Allison Snedeker.

The Jaguars open the season Jan. 31-Feb. 1 at the LSU Alexandria-Louisiana Christian tournament in Alexandria, La.