WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. – The West Liberty University softball team enters the 2026 season with a renewed sense of focus, depth, and purpose under head coach Sara Pelegreen, as the Hilltoppers look to turn a strong offseason into consistent performance when the games begin.
West Liberty opens the season on February 13 with neutral-site contests against King University and Malone, kicking off a challenging slate designed to prepare the Hilltoppers for a demanding Mountain East Conference schedule.
"Our group has been very focused and diligent with our training throughout the fall and preseason," Pelegreen said. "The goal has been to build a toolbox — physically and mentally — that gives us an edge when competition gets tough."
The Hilltoppers return a solid core of experienced contributors, led by senior shortstop Sara Simon, senior second baseman Jaden Conrad, and senior pitcher Ashlyn Tapman. Junior Kadence Pettit adds versatility in the circle and across the field, while sophomore catcher Jill Morr continues to anchor the defense behind the plate.
One of the most anticipated returns belongs to Shelby Harris, a redshirt sophomore utility player who missed last season due to injury after filling multiple roles as a freshman.
Leadership has been a point of emphasis throughout the program, with Simon, Pettit, Conrad, Tapman, Madalyn Johnson, Caroline Woody, and Faith Randolph forming the team's leadership group. Still, Pelegreen notes that leadership is encouraged across the roster.
"Our dynamic is built around developing leadership within everyone," she said. "Different players step up in different ways, and that's been powerful for our culture."
West Liberty added depth across the roster, particularly in the pitching staff. Freshmen Annaliese Davis and Rylee Mangold both bring power bats and competitive presence in the circle, while Alaina Pass, an outfielder and slapper, adds speed and on-base ability at the top of the lineup.
"These newcomers have definitely helped address our depth, especially on the pitching side," Pelegreen said. "They're competitive, coachable, and ready to contribute."
Rather than focusing on wins or statistics, the Hilltoppers continue to emphasize daily standards, culture, and mental growth. The program has worked with a mental performance coach for over a year, helping players strengthen their approach both on and off the field.
"We don't talk about winning or stats," Pelegreen said. "We talk about how we show up each day and whether we're holding ourselves to our standards. When we take care of the little things, everything else takes care of itself."
That approach has translated off the field as well. The team posted a 3.71 GPA during the fall semester, the highest in the West Liberty athletic department, and continues to grow its popular "Lil Sis Program," connecting Hilltopper student-athletes with youth softball players throughout the community.
West Liberty opens MEC play on March 22 against Point Park, while also competing in the WVWC Tournament on March 14–15 against top regional opponents. The Hilltoppers' first home game is set for March 18 vs. IUP, with additional highlighted home dates including Wheeling (March 25), Salem (March 21 – Lil Sis Appreciation Game), Fairmont State (April 25), and Glenville State (April 11 – Senior Night).
With a challenging regional schedule and an emphasis on growth, leadership, and connection, the Hilltoppers are ready to take the field with confidence.
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.
