Omaha Softball Sweeps Doubleheader on Opening Day

Mavericks defeat Iowa State and Butler in dominant performances

Feb. 6, 2026 at 4:47pm

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The University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) softball team kicked off the 2026 season with a pair of convincing wins, defeating Iowa State 13-5 and Butler 13-3 in a doubleheader played in Cedar Falls, Iowa. The Mavericks showcased their offensive firepower, led by standout performances from players like Sammy Schmidt, who hit a three-run homer against the Cyclones and a triple against the Bulldogs.

Why it matters

The Mavericks' dominant start to the season is a promising sign for the program, which is looking to build on its success from previous years. The team's ability to win big in its opening games could set the tone for the rest of the season and help the Mavericks establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the conference.

The details

In the first game against Iowa State, the Mavericks jumped out to an early 2-0 lead, but the Cyclones tied the game at 2-2 in the third inning. Omaha then scored five runs in the bottom of the third to take a 7-2 lead, and they never looked back, eventually winning 13-5. Sammy Schmidt's three-run homer in the fifth inning was a key moment in the game. In the second game against Butler, the Mavericks again got off to a fast start, taking a 3-0 lead in the first two innings. They continued to pour it on, eventually winning 13-3 behind a home run from Rylee White.

  • The doubleheader took place on Friday, February 6, 2026.
  • Omaha's next games will be another doubleheader on Saturday, February 7, 2026, with the first game against Iowa State at 11:30 a.m. and the second game against Northern Iowa at 4:30 p.m. in the UNI-Dome.

The players

Sammy Schmidt

A standout player for the Omaha Mavericks, Schmidt had a dominant performance in the doubleheader, hitting a three-run homer against Iowa State and a triple against Butler.

Rylee White

The Mavericks' power-hitting outfielder, White hit a home run in the victory over Butler.

Maddia Groff

The Omaha pitcher recorded her 500th career strikeout during the game against Iowa State.

Taylor Sedlacek

The Mavericks' infielder had a strong game, scoring twice against Iowa State and hitting a home run against Butler.

Rylinn Groff

The Omaha player drove in a run with a single in the game against Butler.

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What’s next

Omaha will face Iowa State and Northern Iowa in another doubleheader on Saturday, February 7, 2026, as they look to continue their strong start to the season.

The takeaway

Omaha's dominant performance on opening day showcases the team's offensive firepower and depth, setting the stage for a potentially successful season for the Mavericks. The team's ability to win big in its first two games of the year will undoubtedly boost their confidence and momentum as they prepare for the rest of the schedule.