Above: SAU softball team lining up for the national anthem at Keiser University in Florida. Photo courtesy of Justice Krus.

Women’s fast pitch, a national sport that became a part of NAIA Athletics in 1910, is stepping up its game.  With advancements in gear, like high-performance bats, standout players such as Karlyn Pickens, who now holds the record for the fastest pitch at 78.2 mph, and powerhouse teams like the University of Oklahoma, the game is experiencing a new wave of growth and popularity.

SAU softball players say the growth helps boost the game and the esteem of women athletes in the sport. The team ended the season as runner up for the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC) tournament with a record of 28-20. The athletes, while having finished performing their season, can feel and see the difference while the game grows. 

Erica Thulen, a Graduate Assistant for SAU Softball and former Division I player at the University of Kentucky, says,  “I’m really enjoying the season, it’s been a rewarding experience so far. 

“Transitioning from a player to a staff role has definitely been an adjustment, but it’s given me a whole new perspective on the game. I’ve learned so much behind the scenes, and it’s been fulfilling to watch all the hard work transpire on the field. 

“Seeing the game evolve is incredibly exciting. The speed of the game and the power are all being pushed to new levels. The fact that viewership is growing alongside that just makes it even more impactful. 

“It’s amazing to see women’s sports, especially softball, getting more attention. As someone who’s been part of the sport for so long, it’s inspiring to see it reach new heights and connect with more people.”

Thulen also adds, “I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the sport, but seeing the growth in viewership makes it feel like the sport is finally receiving the recognition it deserves, and that deepens my love for being part of it.” 

SAU senior Mady Reed says she sees a big chance in the past four years, “From my freshman year to now, the game has gotten bigger. I watch college softball and even more now because I have been inspired to watch it with the game growing bigger and being surrounded by those who have watched it for years. 

“It’s so inspiring to see players like Karlyn flourish because she shows how important the game is and how young girls can be a part of the amazing growth of the game.

“Being a collegiate athlete has made me realize not to take things for granted, I take all the little things and I am inspired by those at the higher levels, they make the game bigger.”

SAU starting pitcher, freshman, Ada Boysen adds, “I am very much enjoying the season, collegiate sports have shown me to work hard, it teaches you responsibility and discipline.

“From a pitcher’s perspective, it’s a blessing and a curse. With new rules like crow hopping and leaping, along with the bats are way hotter…I think more injury can come with that.” Since the game has been evolving, my stats have definitely increased personally, but I am always nervous about injury.” 

SAU junior, Brynlinn Kroymann, middle infielder explains, “Being a collegiate athlete is hard on the body, I’m injury prone but overcome because of the love for the game. 

“People are watching women’s sports more and more because of its evolution. I love it because now that there are better bats and better pitchers in women’s sports, softball is getting the attention it deserves.

“I love watching the Division 1 level play, it’s faster than NAIA, so as a collegiate athlete, it’s cool to watch.”

Justice Krus is a staff writer for The Buzz.