After a 22–27 campaign in 2025, the Williston State Tetons enter the 2026 season with renewed momentum and a confident sense of direction as head coach Jared Ward begins his fifth year at the helm. With a strong core of returning contributors and an infusion of impactful newcomers, the Tetons believe this year's group is positioned to take a step forward.

Williston State brings back several proven performers who form the backbone of the 2026 roster. Offensively, Jersey Berg returns after a standout season in which she appeared in 40 games and hit .364 with eight home runs, 35 RBIs, and 34 runs scored, while also swiping seven bases. Berg's power and consistency in the middle of the lineup make her one of the Tetons' most dangerous bats.

Joining her is Cameron MacDonald, one of the most dynamic players in the Mon-Dak. Macdonald played in 46 games last season and posted an impressive .397 batting average, driving in 20 runs and scoring 44 times. Her speed was a constant weapon, as she stole 22 bases and applied pressure to opposing defenses every time she reached base.

In the circle, the Tetons will lean heavily on Claire Minchuk, who emerged as a key arm in 2025. Minchuk made 20 appearances with 12 starts, logging 70.2 innings with a 3.86 ERA. She struck out 83 hitters and brings a competitive edge that sets the tone for the pitching staff.

Coach Ward expects that experience to translate into leadership this spring.

"We have strong sophomore leadership that has a lot of experience playing meaningful softball," Ward said. "We expect our group to be led by the ladies in the circle. Minchuk brings grit and fire to every outing, and we expect to go where she takes us."

The Tetons will also benefit from an exciting newcomer in Danica Dominaux, who is expected to be an everyday presence on the left side of the infield. Hailing from Calgary, Alberta, Dominaux brings defensive reliability and offensive upside, quickly establishing herself as a player to watch in her first season with Williston State.

Williston State will be tested early and often in 2026. The Tetons open the season in Jamestown, North Dakota, at the Mon-Dak Preseason Jamboree before heading south to Viera, Florida, for a demanding stretch of 18 games in 15 days. There, they will square off against top-tier JUCO competition, including Iowa Central, Bryant & Stratton (WI), Kalamazoo Valley Community College, and Muskegon Community College.

Following the Florida trip, the focus will shift to Mon-Dak play, with the home opener set for March 28 against Lake Region. With experience, speed, and pitching depth forming the foundation, the 2026 Tetons are eager to translate early-season challenges into success when conference play begins.