AMES — Iowa State University’s softball club put together one of the strongest regular seasons in recent club sports history, finishing 14-1 and riding an 11-game winning streak into postseason play.
For many athletes, college club sports provide an opportunity to continue competing at a high level after high school. Iowa State’s softball club has become an outlet for players who still want the structure, competition and camaraderie that come with athletics.
“I never expected to play softball again after quitting my senior year of high school,” social media chair Rori Olson said. “But joining ISU club softball reignited my love for the game.”
The club carries a roster of approximately 15 to 20 athletes who practice four days a week for three hours each session. Iowa State regularly competes against schools such as the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and rival University of Iowa.
Balancing the commitment of club athletics with academics and college life requires discipline from the players, but team members say the environment makes the workload worthwhile.
One of the program’s biggest strengths is the sense of community it creates for student-athletes.
“I love the community that it creates and the competitive nature that we play with,” future club president Maggie Grigg said. “The group of girls are always so welcoming and easy to talk to.”
Players said the strong team chemistry has translated directly onto the field, where trust and communication have helped Iowa State succeed in pressure moments throughout the season.
“My personal favorite moment of this year was winning a tight game against Iowa in extra innings, thanks to a double by Taylor Durak,” Nora Conzemius said.
As members of the National Club Softball Association, the Cyclones were recently crowned Mid-America East champions, qualifying them for the regional tournament in Overland Park.
At regionals, Iowa State finished 1-2 with a victory over Arlington Baptist and two losses to United States Air Force Academy.
Students interested in joining the club or learning more can contact future club president Maggie Grigg at [email protected].
