Regis College Softball Selected Fourth in GNAC South Preseason Poll
WESTON, Mass. – The Regis College softball team was selected fourth in the South Division of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) preseason poll, as voted on by the coaches. The Pride finished with 55 points, just one behind Lasell. In the division, Albertus Magnus claimed first with 90 points and seven first-place votes, followed closely by the University of Saint Joseph, who also earned seven first-place votes and totaled 88 points, placing the two programs at the top of both divisions.
The Pride return a young core, featuring 14 underclassmen, including three new faces. Last year's sophomores laid a solid foundation during their rookie seasons.
On the mound, Gabriella Blanchard and Kate Julian will look to build upon their rookie campaigns. Blanchard won six games on the mound and recorded two saves in 19 appearances, while classmate Julian struck out a team-best 38 batters across 16 appearances.
In the field, Grace Motto returns after playing in 60% of the team's games, bringing experience and versatility to the infield with a .988 fielding percentage, 84 total chances, and four double plays turned. Behind the plate, freshman Sydney Grund also appeared in 60% of the team's games, recording 65 putouts and 11 assists while handling 40 stolen base attempts and providing a steady presence for the pitching staff.
At the plate, Mel Rees and Lynsey Kay were key contributors last season, with Rees hitting .320 with power and Kay batting .293 with strong run production. This year, both will look to lead the team offensively while continuing to improve and set the tone in every game.
Second-year head coach Carolyn Biel added three new players to the roster as she looks to build on the team's young talent, while upperclassmen and lone senior Madi Zancan provide leadership and consistency. Coach Biel also strengthened her staff with the additions of Maggie Baker and Erin Sheeley, while bringing back Bianca Burke '25 to join Erin Murphy '22 as her second alumni staff member.
The Pride will open the season in Florida at the Spring Games from March 8–13.
North Division
- Simmons (3) - 81
- Rivier (4) - 79
- Emmanuel (4) - 77
- Saint Joseph's (Maine) (3) - 70
- New England College - 40
- Norwich - 27
- Colby-Sawyer - 18
South Division
- Albertus Magnus (7) - 90
- USJ (7) - 88
- Lasell - 56
- Regis - 55
- Mitchell - 54
- Elms - 25
- Dean - 24