Saints Softball Climbs to No. 9 in NAIA Coaches Poll

The Our Lady of the Lake Saints softball team has earned national recognition in the latest NAIA Softball Coaches Top 25 Poll, continuing a strong start to the 2026 season. The Saints checked in at No. 9 in the first regular-season poll, receiving one first-place vote after compiling an impressive 14-1 record.

The poll, released by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, is led by Southern Oregon, which maintained the top position with 11 first-place votes and a 16-6 record. Eastern Oregon moved up to No. 2 with one first-place vote, while Oklahoma City sits at No. 3 after collecting three first-place selections. Oregon Tech climbed to No. 4 with two first-place votes, and Science and Arts of Oklahoma rounds out the top five.

Our Lady of the Lake’s rise to ninth place marks a notable jump from its previous ranking of No. 12, reflecting the program’s early-season success and consistency on the field. The Saints lone first-place vote highlights the respect the program has gained nationally as it continues to build momentum against a competitive schedule.

The Saints are one of two programs from Texas ranked in the poll, joining Texas A&M–Texarkana, which sits at No. 23 with a 12-4 record. Their presence in the Top 10 underscores the continued growth and competitiveness of the program within the NAIA landscape.

As the season progresses, Our Lady of the Lake will look to maintain its strong form and continue climbing in the national rankings. With a 14-1 record and early national recognition, the Saints have positioned themselves as one of the top contenders in NAIA softball this season. The Saints will look to add to their resume as they compete in Gulf Shores this weekend against elite NAIA Softball competition. 

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