The Purdue Northwest softball program heads into the 2026 season with renewed energy, a re-shaped roster, and a clear mission to bounce back under interim head coach Claire Schapker. With a strong senior core, impact returners, and an influx of new talent, the Pride are focused on turning last season’s lessons into results on the field.
Offensively, Purdue Northwest returns one of the most dynamic players in the GLIAC in Kylie Dugan. The two-time First-Team All-GLIAC selection put together a standout 2025 campaign, hit-ting .413 with a .460 on-base percentage while starting all 38 games. Dugan’s speed and con-sistency at the top of the lineup set the tone, as she swiped 21 bases and applied constant pressure on opposing defenses.
Behind her, the Pride bring back significant production in the middle of the order. Senior catcher Olivia Hernandez was one of the most dangerous hitters in the conference a year ago, batting .397 with six home runs and 39 RBI while posting a 1.068 OPS and earning Second-Team All-GLIAC. Fellow senior Grace Wilson adds experience and reliability behind the plate, earning First Team All-GLIAC honors in 2025 after hitting .366 and providing steady leadership defensively. Amanda DeBoer and Emma Fair return after productive seasons in the infield, both hitting above .300 and supplying consistent offense that earned themselves Honorable Mention All-GLIAC selections.
Depth and versatility are expected to be strengths this season, with returners such as Madison Eck-er, Kylie Madura, Jadyn Ramer, Kendall Adelmann, and Jordyn Roop all positioned to take on ex-panded roles. Purdue Northwest also welcomes nine newcomers to the program, including eight freshmen and one transfer, who are expected to make an immediate impact across the diamond. The freshman class brings athleticism and positional flexibility, particularly in the outfield and middle infield, while the transfer adds valuable collegiate experience to a roster that blends youth with vet-eran leadership. The coaching staff anticipates strong competition in fall and preseason workouts, with several newcomers pushing for early playing time and contributing both offensively and de-fensively.
In the circle, the Pride are aiming for growth and stability. Senior pitcher Hailie Charmat returns to lead the bullpen and provide a veteran presence after making 16 appearances last season. Abbey Bond, Jordyn Roop, and Hannah Rafferty-Flatter add depth to the pitching staff, while younger arms and incoming players look to strengthen the rotation and limit opposing offenses. Develop-ment in the pitching staff will be a major emphasis as the Pride look to take a step forward in 2026.
With an experienced catching duo, proven offensive leaders, and a highly regarded group of new-comers, Purdue Northwest enters the 2026 season determined to reestablish itself as a competitive force in the GLIAC. Under Schapker’s guidance, the Pride aim to translate experience, depth, and fresh talent into a season defined by resilience, growth, and progress.
