Simpson Storm Softball Rises to 17th in National Rankings

The team's 4-0 start to the season propels them up the Division III poll.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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After opening the 2026 season with four straight wins, including victories over previously ranked No. 20 Illinois Wesleyan, the Simpson College softball team has moved up four spots to 17th in the latest NFCA/GoRout Division III Top 25 Coaches Poll.

Why it matters

Simpson's strong start to the season and rise in the national rankings is an impressive accomplishment for the program, showcasing their talent and potential to compete at the highest level of Division III softball.

The details

In their opening weekend, the Storm defeated Illinois Wesleyan 4-1 and 6-4, then topped Wisconsin Eau Claire 8-6 and St. Catherine 10-4 to complete the undefeated weekend. Pitcher Marina Cronin and outfielder Caelynn Obleton were recognized as the American Rivers Conference Player and Pitcher of the Week, respectively, and were also named NFCA weekly top performers, joining just 12 other Division III student-athletes honored nationally.

  • The Storm began the 2026 season on March 1 with the doubleheader sweep of Illinois Wesleyan.
  • On March 2, Simpson defeated Wisconsin Eau Claire and St. Catherine to complete the 4-0 opening weekend.
  • The latest NFCA/GoRout Division III Top 25 Coaches Poll was released on March 5, reflecting Simpson's rise to 17th.

The players

Marina Cronin

Simpson's standout pitcher who was named the American Rivers Conference Pitcher of the Week after her performance over the opening weekend.

Caelynn Obleton

Simpson's star outfielder who was named the American Rivers Conference Player of the Week for her offensive contributions during the team's 4-0 start.

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What’s next

The Storm will return home on March 7 to host Westminster for a doubleheader, their first home games of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Simpson's impressive start to the season and rise in the national rankings demonstrates the strength and potential of their softball program, which continues to establish itself as a force to be reckoned with in Division III.