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Simpson Softball Faces Loras in Weekend Doubleheader
11th-ranked Storm look to continue conference play success on the road
Apr. 18, 2026 at 4:00pm
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A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes conference softball matchup between Simpson and Loras, capturing the dynamic energy and competitive spirit of the game.Pella TodayThe 11th-ranked Simpson College softball team will travel to Dubuque, Iowa to take on Loras College in a conference doubleheader on Saturday. The Storm enter the weekend with a 24-5 overall record and 7-3 mark in the American Rivers Conference, putting them in second place. Simpson is led by senior centerfielder Ashlyn Steen, who has a conference-best .543 batting average, ranking sixth nationally in Division III. Loras will counter with a strong pitching staff, including sophomore Kaili Henning, who leads the conference with 106 strikeouts, the 13th-best total in Division III. Freshman Ellie Baker has also been a key offensive contributor for the Duhawks, batting .389 with 11 stolen bases.
Why it matters
This conference doubleheader is an important matchup for both teams as they look to position themselves for the postseason. Simpson is currently in second place in the American Rivers Conference standings, so a strong showing against Loras could help them gain ground on the leaders. For Loras, this is an opportunity to pick up some key conference wins and potentially move up in the standings.
The details
Simpson comes into the weekend fresh off a midweek doubleheader split at Central College. The Storm will look to get back on track against a Loras squad that has found success on the mound this season. Sophomore Kaili Henning has been dominant for the Duhawks, leading the conference with 106 strikeouts, which ranks 13th nationally in Division III. On the offensive side, Loras freshman Ellie Baker has been a spark plug, batting .389 with 11 stolen bases.
- The doubleheader is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026.
- Coverage of the games will begin at 1:45 p.m. on 94.3 KNIA.
The players
Ashlyn Steen
Senior centerfielder for Simpson College, leading the American Rivers Conference with a .543 batting average, which ranks sixth nationally in Division III.
Kaili Henning
Sophomore pitcher for Loras College, leading the conference with 106 strikeouts, the 13th-best total in Division III.
Ellie Baker
Freshman for Loras College, batting .389 with 11 stolen bases on the season.
The takeaway
This weekend's doubleheader between Simpson and Loras will be a key conference matchup as both teams look to improve their standing in the American Rivers Conference. With strong individual performances from players like Ashlyn Steen, Kaili Henning, and Ellie Baker, the outcome of these games could have significant implications for the teams' postseason aspirations.
