ROME, Ga. — The Shorter University softball program reached a major milestone in 2025, making its first appearance in a conference tournament since 2017. In their debut season as members of Conference Carolinas, the Hawks posted a 13–31 overall record and 10–14 in conference play, securing a spot in the league's postseason tournament and signaling a resurgence for the program.
The Hawks battled through a tough preseason schedule featuring several ranked opponents, including #17 Trevecca Nazarene and #12 Mississippi College. The team opened the season on February 1 with a doubleheader against Mars Hill and secured its biggest win early on, defeating Allen University 15–2 in five innings. With two run-rule wins against Wesleyan College, the Hawks showcased their offensive strength by scoring 36 runs across 29 hits.
Consistent efforts throughout March and April in conference play ultimately helped the Hawks clinch a spot in the Conference Carolinas Tournament. To open conference play, the Hawks turned heads defeating preseason poll #2 North Greenville 5-3. The team later went on a four- game win streak defeating Erskine, Lees- McRae in two games, and Young Harris. The Young Harris game was a fight to remember- Abby Brown delivered a three-run homerun in the bottom of the 8th inning to secure the walk- off win. The following week, the Hawks traveled to Southern Wesleyan and defeated the Warriors 6-2, knocking them off the #1 conference KPI ranking.
Rylee Gattis led the team in hits (49), batting average (.368), and on base percentage (.408). Alex Hollingsworth continued to show her strength, leading in homeruns (6) and RBIs (30). Abby Brown was a consistent threat at the plate, leading in slugging percentage (.562) and doubles (11). Defensively, Ashton Stevens finished the year in center field with a 1.000 fielding percentage in 97 chances. On the outfield corners, Espee Reyes and Hope Mask each only made one error. The three also stole 26 of the team's 37 stolen bases. The infield was lock- down on defense, as well, with Kiley Arnold only making three errors at third base across 112 chances, in addition to some ESPN- worthy plays. In the circle, Rylee Gattis led in ERA (4.6 overall, 3.3 in conference play) while Alana Loyd led in strike outs (51) and only allowed 13 walks in 85 innings pitched.
With the return to the postseason, Shorter softball has reestablished itself as a rising program in NCAA Division II and a consistent contender in Conference Carolinas. A strong core of returners and incoming talent sets the stage for continued growth in 2026 and beyond.
