NIU Softball Splits Doubleheader at Bevo Classic

Huskies win opener against Abilene Christian, fall to Ohio State in nightcap

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Northern Illinois University softball team split its first doubleheader of the season on Friday at the Bevo Classic in Austin, Texas. The Huskies defeated Abilene Christian University 7-5 in the opener but lost 7-2 to Ohio State University in the nightcap.

Why it matters

This early-season doubleheader provided the Huskies with valuable experience and an opportunity to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses as they look to build momentum for the rest of the season. The split result shows the team's potential while also highlighting areas for improvement.

The details

In the win over Abilene Christian, NIU rallied from an early 1-0 deficit with a 2-RBI double by junior outfielder Katy Ramage and an RBI double from senior catcher/outfielder Rylie Hartman. The Wildcats regained the lead 5-3, but the Huskies tied it in the fourth and took the lead for good with a 6th-inning home run from senior pitcher/utility player Danielle Stewart. Graduate student Madison Carlson started the game, with junior Hannah Bolly earning the win in relief. Against Ohio State, the Buckeyes jumped out to an early lead with a home run and added runs in the 4th and 5th innings. NIU scored one run on an error, but Ohio State pulled away late with a 3-run 7th inning. Senior Lily Cassell took the loss in the start, with Taylor Mackin and Elle Glass also seeing action in relief.

  • The doubleheader took place on Friday, February 15, 2026 in Austin, Texas.

The players

Kathryn Gleason

The head coach of the Northern Illinois University softball team.

Katy Ramage

A junior outfielder for the Northern Illinois University softball team.

Rylie Hartman

A senior catcher/outfielder for the Northern Illinois University softball team.

Danielle Stewart

A senior pitcher/utility player for the Northern Illinois University softball team.

Madison Carlson

A graduate student pitcher who started the game against Abilene Christian for the Northern Illinois University softball team.

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What they’re saying

“Overall it was a good first day. We are figuring out who we are in all three aspects of the game. It was great to be out on the dirt and get the chance to play as a team.”

— Kathryn Gleason, Head Coach, Northern Illinois University Softball (NIU Athletics)

“Today went so well for the team's first time back on the dirt. I am so proud of the fight we showed in both of our games. When I went up to the plate I knew I had a job to do for the team. I went up there with a plan and trusted in the work I have been doing at practice.”

— Rylie Hartman, Senior Catcher/Outfielder, Northern Illinois University Softball (N/A)

“It was good for me to see various different pitchers and get a feel for where my swing is at. I have been putting in a lot of extra hours to critique little parts of my swing as well as the mental side of hitting to better myself as a player.”

— Katy Ramage, Junior Outfielder, Northern Illinois University Softball (N/A)

“Softball is a game of failure and it's up to you on how you learn from that to better yourself down the road. I see each at bat as an opportunity to compete and do my role for the better of the team.”

— Katy Ramage, Junior Outfielder, Northern Illinois University Softball (N/A)

What’s next

The Huskies will continue play at the Bevo Classic on Saturday, February 16, 2026, facing the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Oregon.

The takeaway

This split doubleheader showed the Huskies' potential, with strong offensive performances and resilience in the face of adversity. However, the team will need to shore up its pitching and defense to compete at the highest level this season. The early-season experience will be invaluable as NIU looks to build momentum and make a push for the postseason.