BURNSVILLE, MN – Janelle Bergmann and Arria Johnson were named as the University of Mary Athletes to Watch for the Marauders softball team in 2026 by the Northern Sun. UMary is projected to finish 16th in the conference, according to the NSIC Preseason Softball Coaches' Poll.

Bergmann, a senior from Tracy, CA, is the Marauders NSIC Player to Watch. Last season, she posted a .310 batting average, .346 on-base percentage, and .563 slugging percentage to give her a team-best .909 OPS. The Tracy, CA, native led the Marauders in home runs (6) and RBIs (31) in her first season playing the outfield. Bergmann recorded 39 hits and eight steals in 46 games played.

"Nelly is our quiet leader who leads by example each day. Last year, we converted her to outfield, and she quickly became one of our best. She has positively impacted our program since her freshman year, and we can't wait to see how she'll finish her career as a Marauder," said head coach Amy Schmeckpeper.

Johnson, a junior from Graham, WA, is the Marauders NSIC Pitcher to Watch in 2026. She led UMary with a 5.09 ERA last season. Johnson pitched 77 innings and struck out 32 batters.

"Arria is one of our most competitive and gritty players. She always wants the ball and works hard every day to improve. She has had tremendous growth these last two seasons, and we are excited to see how she will perform in the circle this year," Schmeckpeper said.

Schmeckpeper begins her third season in charge of the UMary softball program. The Marauders have 14 players returning from last season. UMary will have ten newcomers, including seven freshmen and three transfers.

 "The 2025-2026 Marauders softball team is very hardworking and focused. There is a confidence within this team that surpasses our previous seasons. Our players are hungry for success and determined to make it happen," said Schmeckpeper.

The Marauders open the regular season in a doubleheader against Black Hills State University on Friday, January 30, in Minot, ND, at noon.

#marauders#