The Washington University in St. Louis softball coaching staff made history by being named the 2026 NFCA Division III Region VIII Coaching Staff of the Year. Under head coach Casey Cromwell, the Bears emerged as a competitive force, achieving a peak ranking of No. 4 this season. The team posted a strong 30-7-1 record and won the UAA for the second consecutive year, which is their first back-to-back title since 2014/2015. Notable player accolades include junior pitcher Maria Brooks earning NFCA First Team All-America honors and multiple other team members receiving regional and national recognitions. This marks their third consecutive year receiving UAA Coaching Staff of the Year honors.

By the Numbers
  • Bears achieved a record of 30-7-1 this season.
  • Ranked as high as No. 4 nationally during the season.
State of Play
  • The Bears have hosted an NCAA Regional for the third consecutive year.
  • Junior Maria Brooks received multiple honors, including Pitcher of the Year and First Team All-America.
What's Next

Looking ahead, the coaching staff hopes to build on this momentum and continue attracting top talent, with an eye towards further national recognition and success in future seasons. Their successful recruitment and player development strategies will be crucial in maintaining their competitive edge.

Bottom Line

The Bears’ coaching staff's recognition reflects their commitment to excellence and the significant progress of the program. Continued support from the community will be vital in sustaining their success and fostering future achievements for WashU athletics.