ICCAC 2019 Spring Preview | Division II Softball
Posted: Feb 06, 2020
Division II Softball Preview
For years, DMACC and Kirkwood have dominated the Division II Softball landscape in Region XI and on the national stage. Since 2011, the two have won every Region XI Championship including the last five years when the Region split into XI-A & XI-B. The two are favorites again in 2020 to host the Region Championships in May.
DMACC, who finished in 3rd Place at the 2020 National Championships, returns First Team All-American and ICCAC Pitcher of the Year, Josie Swafford. Also returning is First Team All-Region designated player Ally Pickering.
Last year, Kirkwood finished in 4th place at Nationals and looks to return again in 2020. An annual offensive power, the Eagles bring back Second Team All-American outfielder Shelby Hulsebus and First Team All-Region infielder London Jackson to provide pop.
Right behind Kirkwood and DMACC are the NIACC Trojans. The Trojans burst onto the scene in 2019 finishing in third place and a record of 30-18. They had Kirkwood on the ropes in the Region XI-B Tournament, only to lose in the if-necessary championship game. They will need to replace sluggers Alyssa Laxson and Kaci Sherwood, each who had 15 homers a year ago.
Iowa Central has been in the hunt for the past few seasons as well. Bre Tejbben, Parker Matthews and Sophia Cave all return to solidify at the veteran infield.
Will 2020 see a new regional champion? Follow along all season at www.iccac.org or on Twitter/Instagram @ICCACSports.
