Softball News Archive
No Surprise: Prestianni is Linfield's top female athlete
- June 3rd 2013
Karleigh Prestianni is named Female Athlete of the Year after leading the softball team to a fourth straight conference crown and delivering career-highs for batting average, on-base percentage, doubles and RBI
Tenacity earns Paavola the Vern Marshall Award - May 30th 2013
Overcoming nagging injuries at the same time developing new wrinkles in her pitching arsenal, Karina Paavola's resilience on the softball diamond makes the junior pitcher a cut above
Three's Company - May 17th 2013
A trio of Wildcats - Karleigh Prestianni, Lisa Yamamoto and Erin Carson - are recognized for outstanding seasons with their selections to the NFCA All-America team Complete NFCA All-America Team | Linfield's Softball All-Americans
Texas Two-Step - May 11th 2013
Unable to find its offensive gear for a second straight day, Linfield sees its streak of appearances in the NCAA Finals come to an end Box Score | Tyler Regional Website
Super Six - May 10th 2013
Six Linfield Wildcats are named to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association all-West Region teams Complete All-Region Teams
Rough Day at the Office - May 10th 2013
A series of miscues and mishaps prove costly as Redlands blanks Linfield 3-0, sending the Wildcats into an elimination game against powerhouse Texas-Tyler Box Score | Watch Live (9 a.m. PDT) | Tyler Regional Website |
Up for Grabs - May 9th 2013
With five Top 25 teams packed into the six-team Tyler Regional, it's anyone's guess which powerhouse program will emerge as victor and advance to next week's NCAA Finals Watch Live (4 p.m. PDT) | Tyler Regional Website
'Cats bound for Lone Star State - May 6th 2013
Linfield faces Redlands in a stacked six-team, double-elimination tournament at Tyler, Texas, to begin the NCAA Division III regional playoffs Regional Bracket (.pdf) | Tyler Regional Website
Playoff field due Monday - May 4th 2013
Linfield learns its playoff destination Monday at 7 a.m. PDT via the live internet selection show on NCAA.com Watch the Selection Show
Prestianni's legacy defines complete college experience - May 4th 2013
With her softball career rounding third base and heading for home, Karleigh Prestianni has quietly become a top-notch role model athletically and academically
Academic All-District honors go to VandeBergh - May 3rd 2013
Exceptional performance in the classroom as well as on the diamond earns junior Shelby VandeBergh a CoSIDA/Capital One Academic All-District citation Complete Academic All-District Teams
Dominating Dozen - May 2nd 2013
Twelve Wildcats draw praise with spots on the all-Northwest Conference teams, including Player of the Year Karleigh Prestianni and Pitcher of the Year Karina Paavola Complete NWC All-Star Team
Linfield pair sweep NWC awards - April 23rd 2013
Wildcats pitcher Karina Paavola receives Northwest Conference Pitcher of the Week honors and Ashley Garcia is the NWC Position Player of the Week
Linfield drops PLU 3-2, snatches NCAA berth - April 21st 2013
Karleigh Prestianni and Ashley Garcia power Linfield to the 2013 Northwest Conference Tournament title, securing the league's automatic berth to the NCAA Division III regional playoffs Box Score | Photo Gallery | Tournament Summary |
Wildcats take command at NWC Tournament - April 20th 2013
Linfield slips by challenger Pacific 3-2 before dominating Whitworth 12-0 in five innings to gain the inside track at the four-team, double-elimination playoff tournament Pacific Box Score | Whitworth Box Score | Tournament Schedule |
NWC Tournament comes to McMinnville - April 18th 2013
Pacific Lutheran, Whitworth, Pacific and Linfield converge on Del Smith Stadium Saturday and Sunday, all with an eye toward claiming the Northwest Conference's automatic berth to the NCAA Playoffs Follow the Tournament | Live Stats
Prestianni named NWC Player of Week again - April 18th 2013
For the second straight week, Linfield senior Karleigh Prestianni is lauded as the Northwest Conference's Position Player of the Week
Wildcats polish off Lutes, prep for NWC Tournament - April 15th 2013
Linfield completes a season-sweep of Pacific Lutheran and heads to this week's NWC Playoff Tournament on a roll Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Hit Parade - April 14th 2013
Karleigh Prestianni hits three of Linfield's six home runs and the Wildcats roll up 26 hits on Puget Sound during a Northwest Conference doubleheader sweep in Tacoma Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
A Perfect 10 - April 10th 2013
With an 8-0 shutout of Willamette, Linfield clinches a 10th consecutive Northwest Conference crown and earns the right to host the four-team NWC Playoff Tournament Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Current NWC Standings |
History repeats itself as Wildcats foil Bruins twice - April 7th 2013
Like Saturday's doubleheader, Linfield drubs George Fox 12-3 in Game 1 before needing to rally from four runs down in the seventh inning to pull out an 8-6 squeaker in Game 2 Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Opposite Extremes - April 6th 2013
After cruising through an 11-0 romp in the opener, Linfield must rally three times to hold off upset-minded George Fox 9-8 Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Home Run City - April 3rd 2013
Linfield sends six home runs over the Willamette outfield fence, part of a 38-hit onslaught that keeps the Wildcats squarely in control of the Northwest Conference title race Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Wildcat duo reap NWC rewards - April 2nd 2013
Pitcher Shelby VandeBergh and slugger Lisa Yamamoto are recognized by the Northwest Conference for outstanding play by being named the Pitcher and Hitter Student-Athletes of the Week
Sweep Revenge! 'Cats outlast Lutes twice - March 30th 2013
Facing PLU for the first time since last season's national championship game, Karleigh Prestianni and Lisa Yamamoto leave no doubt with five hits each and the Wildcats move a step closer to their 10th straight NWC title Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Paavola, VandeBergh unhittable in NWC sweep of UPS - March 29th 2013
Starting pitchers Karina Paavola and Shelby Vandebergh refuse to allow a hit as Linfield moves to 12-2 in the Northwest Conference Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Paavola repeats as NWC Pitcher of the Week - March 26th 2013
Junior Karina Paavola becomes the first back-to-back winner of the Northwest Conference weekly award this season after whipping up three more victories down in California
Playoff preview? Wildcats and Panthers trade blows - March 22nd 2013
Chapman halts Linfield's eight-game win streak with a come-from-behind victory in the opener, but the 'Cats return the favor with a 12-1 spanking in Game 2 Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Timely hitting lifts Linfield over Cal Lu - March 21st 2013
After whipping the Regals 12-2 in Game 1, the Wildcats battle back from a three-run deficit to pull out a 5-4 extra-innings victory in the nightcap Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Mistake-prone Leopards swept by Wildcats - March 20th 2013
Linfield takes full advantage of Megan Wallo's career afternoon and 10 costly La Verne errors Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
By one run or many, Wildcats find ways to win - March 17th 2013
Fueled by the pitching of Karina Paavola and hitting of Karleigh Prestianni and Lisa Yamamoto, Linfield wins both sides of a Northwest Conference doubleheader at Pacific Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Swinging for the Fences - March 16th 2013
Haylie Watson and Lisa Yamamoto each homer twice during an impressive Northwest Conference doubleheader sweep of Lewis & Clark Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Saturday twinbill moves up to 10:30 a.m. - March 15th 2013
Rain is forecast for Saturday afternoon, causing Linfield and Lewis & Clark to begin their Northwest Conference doubleheader 90 minutes sooner than originally scheduled Listen Live | Live Stats
4:10 to Atlanta - March 10th 2013
Playoff adversaries Linfield and Illinois Wesleyan trade punches before their game is halted by time limit in the third-place game of the NFCA Leadoff Classic Tournament Bracket
Two shutouts are better than one - March 9th 2013
Erin Carson pounds five hits while Karina Paavola and Shelby VandeBergh pitch matcing shutouts over Fontbonne and St. Thomas to advance the Wildcats to the semifinals of the NFCA Leadoff Classic Tournament Schedule
'Cats win one, lose another on Day 1 of Leadoff Classic - March 8th 2013
Ninth-ranked Linfield gets 12 hits to fuel a 9-1 victory over No. 22 Ithaca, then drops a tight 2-1 decision to Gustavas Adolphus
Paavola tabbed for NWC Pitcher of the Week honors - March 5th 2013
Seasoned righthander Karina Paavola pitches Linfield to two victories last week, both of them shutouts, vaulting the Wildcats back into first place in the Northwest Conference standings
'Cats claw back into first place - March 3rd 2013
Using a pair of one-hit shutouts, Linfield sweeps aside early season frontrunner Lewis & Clark to assume the top spot in the Northwest Conference standings Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Wallo, Paavola lead Wildcats past Boxers - March 2nd 2013
Megan Wallo swats three doubles and Karina Paavola twirls a two-hit shutout as Linfield gets some of its swagger back in a doubleheader sweep of Pacific Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Saturday games moving to 11 a.m. - March 1st 2013
The threat of wet weather results Linfield's doubleheader with Pacific being moved ahead one hour to 11 a.m. Updated Schedule | Listen Live | Live Stats |
That was Then, This is Now - February 28th 2013
Refusing to lean on past accomplishment, the 2013 Wildcats are focused on reaching their full potential and claiming the program's 10th straight Northwest Conference championship Season Outlook
'Cats, Pirates split again - February 24th 2013
Linfield bounces back from an epic 15-inning loss to Whitworth Saturday by thumping the Pirates 15-3 in Sunday's opening contest before the Bucs post a 7-6 victory in Game 2 Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
The Longest Day - February 23rd 2013
Fifth-ranked Linfield and upstart Whitworth wage a pair of extra-inning stalemates in the season-opening series at Del Smith Stadium Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Doucette among winners at Oregon Sports Awards - February 11th 2013
Linfield softball star Staci Doucette receives the prestigious Ad Rutschman Award, singling out Oregon's top female and male small-college student-athletes Watch the Presentation | Complete List of OSA Winners
Can the 'Cats make it 10? - January 28th 2013
Though Linfield returns 14 letterwinners, including two All-Americans, Pacific Lutheran is picked to end Linfield's nine-year reign as Northwest Conference champion NWC Preseason Coaches Poll
Clinic spots filling up fast - January 4th 2013
Openings remain for the Jan. 26 all-skills clinic for girls ages 8-18 Registration Form (.pdf) | February 2nd Clinic is Full
Lepp named Diamond Sports Catcher of the Year - September 10th 2012
Recent graduate Emilee Lepp's rare combination of speed, power and spotless defense earns distinction as the best catcher in Division III for a second straight year
'Cats come tantalizingly close to repeat title - June 8th 2012
Led by yet another star-studded cast, Linfield continues to assert itself as a national power by reaching the NCAA championship game for the third straight season Season in Review | Updated Record Book
Two 'Cats named Academic All-American - May 22nd 2012
Jaydee Baxter and Karleigh Prestianni are recognized for their scholarly achievement as well as athletic accomplishment by being named to the Capital One Academic All-America team Complete AAA List
Wildcats come one step short of NCAA title - May 21st 2012
Linfield battles through the losers bracket before falling one game short of repeating as Division III national champion Pacific Lutheran Box Score | Montclair State Box Score
Linfield wins twice, stays alive at NCAA Finals - May 20th 2012
The Wildcats hit four home runs and get complete-game victories from pitchers Karina Paavola and Lauren Harvey to draw one step closer to a repeat championship Tufts Box Score | Roanoke Box Score | Interactive Bracket |
Once the Hunter, now the Hunted - May 19th 2012
Defending champion Linfield has twice as many hits and half as many errors but surrenders a late inning home run to fall to NWC rival Pacific Lutheran 5-3 at the NCAA Division III Finals Box Score | Interactive Bracket | Full Video Replay |
Four named NFCA All-Americans - May 18th 2012
Staci Doucette, Emilee Lepp, Karleigh Prestianni and Karina Paavola are honored for outstanding seasons by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Complete NFCA All-America List | Linfield's All-Americans
'Cats put the big chill on Polar Bears - May 18th 2012
Linfield rolls up 14 hits on Ohio Northern but gives up a season-high 13 hits to go with four errors during a 9-5 win in the opening-round game of the NCAA Division III Finals Box Score | Interactive Bracket | Video Highlights |
Back-to-Back? Wildcats chase history at NCAA Finals - May 17th 2012
Defending Division III champion Linfield can become just the third softball program to repeat, but seven quality teams stand in its way Interactive Bracket
Six 'Cats named All-Region - May 15th 2012
Seniors Emilee Lepp, Staci Doucette and Jaydee Baxter highlight six all-West Region selections as announced by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Complete NFCA All-Region List
Here Come the 'Cats! - May 13th 2012
Linfield beats Illinois Wesleyan 6-2 to capture its third straight NCAA regional championship, sending the Wildcats to Salem, Va., to defend their national title Box Score | Bloomington Regional Website
One Hit Wonder - May 12th 2012
Emilee Lepp's clutch three-run homer provides the only scoring in a 3-0 pitchers' duel, putting Linfield in the driver's seat to claim one of eight berths to the NCAA Finals Box Score | Bloomington Regional Website
Quoth the Ravens nevermore: Linfield thumps Anderson - May 11th 2012
Linfield jumps to a big lead early, then rides an eight-strikeout performance by Karina Paavola to advance in the winners bracket of the NCAA Division III Bloomington Regional Box Score | Bloomington Regional Website
Two-out burst lifts Linfield past Benedictine - May 10th 2012
Emilee Lepp and Staci Doucette each contribute clutch hits as the Wildcats down the Eagles 3-0 to advance in the winners bracket of the NCAA Division III Bloomington Regional Box Score | Bloomington Regional Website
Baxter, Prestianni honored for academic achievement - May 9th 2012
Linfield stars Jaydee Baxter and Karleigh Prestianni receive acclaim for their performance in the classroom as well as on the diamond
Repeat the Feat - May 8th 2012
After a two-week layoff, defending NCAA champion Linfield looks to crank up its home run machine at the NCAA Division III regional playoffs in Bloomington, Ill. Watch Live | Listen Live | Live Stats |
Wildcats sent to Land of Lincoln - May 7th 2012
Defending NCAA champion Linfield is headed to Bloomington, Ill., to face Benedictine (Ill.) in the opening round of a eight-team regional playoff tournament hosted by Illinois Wesleyan University Selection Show | Tournament Website
Linfield Softball's 'Rock Star' - May 5th 2012
A conversation with three-time Northwest Conference Player of the Year Staci Doucette reveals she's just a kid at heart
Wildcats clean up in all-star voting - May 3rd 2012
Ten Linfielders - the equivalent of the entire starting lineup - receive Northwest Conference all-star distinction Complete NWC All-Star Team
Playoff announcement coming Monday - May 1st 2012
Linfield's softball faithful will want to set their alarm clocks early for the 7:20 a.m. announcement of the 61-team NCAA playoff tournament field Watch the Announcement Live
Wildcats run out of lives - April 22nd 2012
Linfield twice battles back in the late innings to remain alive at the NWC Playoff Tournament, but Pacific Lutheran ended the Wildcats' hopes of a third comeback with a 3-0 win in the title game Willamette Box Score | Pacific Lutheran Game 1 Box | Pacific Lutheran Game 2 Box |
Lutes knock off Wildcats 3-1 - April 21st 2012
Continuing an epic series that has seen the road team win all five games, fifth-ranked Pacific Lutheran beats No. 1 Linfield 3-1 on the opening day of the Northwest Conference Playoff Tournament George Fox Box Score | Pacific Lutheran Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Doucette picks up another NWC weekly award - April 17th 2012
Senior Staci Doucette shows no signs of slowing down her offensive production as top-ranked Linfield prepares to host the NWC Softball Tournament
NWC Championships coming to Mac - April 16th 2012
With an automatic berth to the NCAA playoffs at stake, Linfield is serving as host for the four-team Northwest Conference Playoff Tournament Saturday and Sunday Championship Web Site | Visitors Guide
Nine is Fine! 'Cats claim ninth crown - April 15th 2012
Staci Doucette has two home runs and Linfield holds off Willamette twice to capture the program's ninth consecutive Northwest Conference championship Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
After upset in the opener, Linfield has last laugh - April 14th 2012
Willamette rides pitcher Alex Watilo to a 2-0 victory in the opener, but the Wildcats answer with an 8-0 shutout in the nightcap to move within one victory of the program's ninth straight NWC title Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
She'll go to bat for the good guys - April 10th 2012
With a nose-to-the-grindstone work ethic and love of pressure situations, Jordan Mixsell would have no problem fitting into the intense world of law enforcement
Late-inning push propels 'Cats - April 7th 2012
George Fox hangs close with No. 1 Linfield in both games before the Wildcats get their offense untracked Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Bruins go down swinging - April 6th 2012
Pitchers Lauren Harvey, Karina Paavola and Shelby VandeBergh combine for 16 strikeouts as Linfield clinches its eighth-straight 30-win season Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Linfield Season-by-Season |
Mixsell's game-winner earns her NWC honors - April 3rd 2012
Senior outfielder Jordan Mixsell gets the player of the week nod for lifting the 'Cats to a key victory over the Lutes in a showdown of championship contenders
Garcia, Lepp, Paavola key road sweep - April 2nd 2012
Ashley Garcia and Emilee Lepp both tap four hits and Karina Paavola records a career-high 12 strikeouts as Linfield moves closer to its ninth straight conference title Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
No Foolin'! 'Cats wrestle first place from Lutes - April 1st 2012
Smacking six home runs, Linfield avenges its only losses of the season by knocking off No. 7 Pacific Lutheran twice in Parkland Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Friday twinbill starts at 4 p.m. - April 1st 2012
The start of Friday's Linfield-George Fox doubleheader moves to the late afternoon in order to avoid additional missed class time Updated Schedule
Saturday games moved to Monday - March 30th 2012
Linfield's Northwest Conference doubleheader at Puget Sound shifts to Monday at 3 o'clock due to forecast of heavy rain Updated Schedule
Doucette is NFCA National Player of the Week - March 28th 2012
The National Fastpitch Coaches Association honors Linfield slugger Staci Doucette as its Louisville Slugger National Division III Player of the Week NFCA Release
Doucette cans NWC Player of Week honors - March 27th 2012
Senior Staci Doucette continues to put up big numbers to lead the top-ranked Wildcats to six straight victories in southern California
'Cats clean Bulldogs' clock - March 27th 2012
Linfield posts consecutive shutouts of ninth-ranked Redlands, getting commanding pitching performances from Lauren Harvey and Karina Paavola, plus two home runs from Karleigh Prestianni Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Close but no cigar for CMS - March 25th 2012
Clutch performances by pitchers Shelby VandeBergh and Karina Paavola, plus sluggers Karleigh Prestianni and Staci Doucette, carry Linfield past upset-minded Claremont-Mudd-Scripps Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Double the pleasure, triple the fun - March 23rd 2012
Linfield aces Lauren Harvey and Karina Paavola toss back-to-back complete-game shutouts and Emilee Lepp sets the career triples record in a sweep of Chapman Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
'Cats crown Regals to begin California Adventure - March 22nd 2012
One day after regaining the No. 1 spot in the coaches poll, Linfield dominates Cal Lutheran 11-2 and 10-0 to open up a 10-game circuit through southern California Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Paavola named NWC Pitcher of the Week - March 20th 2012
Sophomore Karina Paavola continues to assert herself on the mound, throwing her second no-no of the year to help the 'Cats get back to their winning ways
Mixsell, Lepp, Paavola key sweep of L&C - March 18th 2012
Jordan Mixsell and Emilee Lepp each account for four hits, and Karina Paavola tosses her second no-hitter of the season for the Wildcats, who improve to 16-2 for the season Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Doucette, 'Cats continue record-setting pace - March 17th 2012
Staci Doucette becomes NCAA Division III's all-time home runs leader and Linfield hits five homers to rout Pacific twice, 10-2 and 12-1 Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Lute rallies leave Wildcats scratching heads - March 11th 2012
Pacific Lutheran assembles back-to-back come-from-behind victories, dealing Linfield its first conference losses in 365 days Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Top-ranked Linfield squashes Puget Sound - March 10th 2012
The visiting Loggers fall victim to a two big innings during a doubleheader sweep at the hands of the defending national champions Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Catballers sweep NWC weekly awards - March 6th 2012
Second baseman Ashley Garcia and right-handed pitcher Karina Paavola are honored as the Northwest Conference's top players after leading the No. 1 Wildcats to six dominating victories
Shutout pitching + 18 hits = 2 wins - March 4th 2012
Karina Paavola and Lauren Harvey pitch matching shutouts and the Wildcats do their usual damage at the plate during a doubleheader sweep of the Pacific Boxers Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Home-run happy Wildcats pound Pioneers - March 3rd 2012
Linfield swats seven home runs in a 10-inning span and the Wildcats run away from Lewis & Clark in a pair of run-rule shortened games Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Prestianni is NWC Player of the Week - February 29th 2012
Junior thirdbaseman Karleigh Prestianni earns Linfield's first Northwest Conference Softball Student-Athlete of the Week honor after leading the top-ranked Wildcats to six victories over the past week
Weather-marred series comes to an end, finally - February 27th 2012
Despite the series being relocated twice, Linfield does what is expected, sweeping Northwest Conference foe Whitworth by lopsided margins Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Doucette, Garcia spark Wildcats - February 26th 2012
Staci Doucette hammers two home runs and Ashley Garcia drives in six runs as Linfield thumps Whitworth 13-2 and 10-1 Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Picking Up Where They Left Off - February 23rd 2012
With last season's national championship in the rearview mirror, Linfield turns its attention to continuing the program's tradition of deep playoff runs Season Outlook | 2012 Schedule
'Cats clobber Cavs to start 2012 - February 22nd 2012
Five home runs, including two by slugger Karleigh Prestianni, lift No. 1 Linfield past NAIA foe Concordia-Portland Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Whitworth series shifts to Pasco - February 21st 2012
For the second straight year, poor field conditions forces the Linfield-Whitworth series to move to the Tri-Cities Columbia Basin CC map | Directions to Columbia Basin CC
Defending champs to start season No. 1 - February 1st 2012
With a wealth of offensive firepower and pitching coming back, the Linfield Wildcats begin their second consecutive season as the top-ranked team in NCAA Division III NFCA Preseason Top 25 | 2012 Roster | 2012 Schedule |
'Cats top NWC preseason poll - January 30th 2012
Returning four first team All-NWC honorees from last year's Northwest Conference and NCAA championship club, Linfield is picked by coaches to win its ninth consecutive league title Read More
Stadium named in honor of Del Smith - November 14th 2011
Linfield's softball facility is named for the aviation pioneer in recognition of his longtime support to the college and its athletic programs Evolution of Del Smith Stadium
Catballers lauded for academic achivements - October 7th 2011
Twelve Linfield student-athletes are named National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-America Scholar-Athletes NFCA News Release
Karleigh Prestianni is named Female Athlete of the Year after leading the softball team to a fourth straight conference crown and delivering career-highs for batting average, on-base percentage, doubles and RBI
Tenacity earns Paavola the Vern Marshall Award - May 30th 2013
Overcoming nagging injuries at the same time developing new wrinkles in her pitching arsenal, Karina Paavola's resilience on the softball diamond makes the junior pitcher a cut above
Three's Company - May 17th 2013
A trio of Wildcats - Karleigh Prestianni, Lisa Yamamoto and Erin Carson - are recognized for outstanding seasons with their selections to the NFCA All-America team Complete NFCA All-America Team | Linfield's Softball All-Americans
Texas Two-Step - May 11th 2013
Unable to find its offensive gear for a second straight day, Linfield sees its streak of appearances in the NCAA Finals come to an end Box Score | Tyler Regional Website
Super Six - May 10th 2013
Six Linfield Wildcats are named to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association all-West Region teams Complete All-Region Teams
Rough Day at the Office - May 10th 2013
A series of miscues and mishaps prove costly as Redlands blanks Linfield 3-0, sending the Wildcats into an elimination game against powerhouse Texas-Tyler Box Score | Watch Live (9 a.m. PDT) | Tyler Regional Website |
Up for Grabs - May 9th 2013
With five Top 25 teams packed into the six-team Tyler Regional, it's anyone's guess which powerhouse program will emerge as victor and advance to next week's NCAA Finals Watch Live (4 p.m. PDT) | Tyler Regional Website
'Cats bound for Lone Star State - May 6th 2013
Linfield faces Redlands in a stacked six-team, double-elimination tournament at Tyler, Texas, to begin the NCAA Division III regional playoffs Regional Bracket (.pdf) | Tyler Regional Website
Playoff field due Monday - May 4th 2013
Linfield learns its playoff destination Monday at 7 a.m. PDT via the live internet selection show on NCAA.com Watch the Selection Show
Prestianni's legacy defines complete college experience - May 4th 2013
With her softball career rounding third base and heading for home, Karleigh Prestianni has quietly become a top-notch role model athletically and academically
Academic All-District honors go to VandeBergh - May 3rd 2013
Exceptional performance in the classroom as well as on the diamond earns junior Shelby VandeBergh a CoSIDA/Capital One Academic All-District citation Complete Academic All-District Teams
Dominating Dozen - May 2nd 2013
Twelve Wildcats draw praise with spots on the all-Northwest Conference teams, including Player of the Year Karleigh Prestianni and Pitcher of the Year Karina Paavola Complete NWC All-Star Team
Linfield pair sweep NWC awards - April 23rd 2013
Wildcats pitcher Karina Paavola receives Northwest Conference Pitcher of the Week honors and Ashley Garcia is the NWC Position Player of the Week
Linfield drops PLU 3-2, snatches NCAA berth - April 21st 2013
Karleigh Prestianni and Ashley Garcia power Linfield to the 2013 Northwest Conference Tournament title, securing the league's automatic berth to the NCAA Division III regional playoffs Box Score | Photo Gallery | Tournament Summary |
Wildcats take command at NWC Tournament - April 20th 2013
Linfield slips by challenger Pacific 3-2 before dominating Whitworth 12-0 in five innings to gain the inside track at the four-team, double-elimination playoff tournament Pacific Box Score | Whitworth Box Score | Tournament Schedule |
NWC Tournament comes to McMinnville - April 18th 2013
Pacific Lutheran, Whitworth, Pacific and Linfield converge on Del Smith Stadium Saturday and Sunday, all with an eye toward claiming the Northwest Conference's automatic berth to the NCAA Playoffs Follow the Tournament | Live Stats
Prestianni named NWC Player of Week again - April 18th 2013
For the second straight week, Linfield senior Karleigh Prestianni is lauded as the Northwest Conference's Position Player of the Week
Wildcats polish off Lutes, prep for NWC Tournament - April 15th 2013
Linfield completes a season-sweep of Pacific Lutheran and heads to this week's NWC Playoff Tournament on a roll Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Hit Parade - April 14th 2013
Karleigh Prestianni hits three of Linfield's six home runs and the Wildcats roll up 26 hits on Puget Sound during a Northwest Conference doubleheader sweep in Tacoma Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
A Perfect 10 - April 10th 2013
With an 8-0 shutout of Willamette, Linfield clinches a 10th consecutive Northwest Conference crown and earns the right to host the four-team NWC Playoff Tournament Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Current NWC Standings |
History repeats itself as Wildcats foil Bruins twice - April 7th 2013
Like Saturday's doubleheader, Linfield drubs George Fox 12-3 in Game 1 before needing to rally from four runs down in the seventh inning to pull out an 8-6 squeaker in Game 2 Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Opposite Extremes - April 6th 2013
After cruising through an 11-0 romp in the opener, Linfield must rally three times to hold off upset-minded George Fox 9-8 Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Home Run City - April 3rd 2013
Linfield sends six home runs over the Willamette outfield fence, part of a 38-hit onslaught that keeps the Wildcats squarely in control of the Northwest Conference title race Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Wildcat duo reap NWC rewards - April 2nd 2013
Pitcher Shelby VandeBergh and slugger Lisa Yamamoto are recognized by the Northwest Conference for outstanding play by being named the Pitcher and Hitter Student-Athletes of the Week
Sweep Revenge! 'Cats outlast Lutes twice - March 30th 2013
Facing PLU for the first time since last season's national championship game, Karleigh Prestianni and Lisa Yamamoto leave no doubt with five hits each and the Wildcats move a step closer to their 10th straight NWC title Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Paavola, VandeBergh unhittable in NWC sweep of UPS - March 29th 2013
Starting pitchers Karina Paavola and Shelby Vandebergh refuse to allow a hit as Linfield moves to 12-2 in the Northwest Conference Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Paavola repeats as NWC Pitcher of the Week - March 26th 2013
Junior Karina Paavola becomes the first back-to-back winner of the Northwest Conference weekly award this season after whipping up three more victories down in California
Playoff preview? Wildcats and Panthers trade blows - March 22nd 2013
Chapman halts Linfield's eight-game win streak with a come-from-behind victory in the opener, but the 'Cats return the favor with a 12-1 spanking in Game 2 Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Timely hitting lifts Linfield over Cal Lu - March 21st 2013
After whipping the Regals 12-2 in Game 1, the Wildcats battle back from a three-run deficit to pull out a 5-4 extra-innings victory in the nightcap Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Mistake-prone Leopards swept by Wildcats - March 20th 2013
Linfield takes full advantage of Megan Wallo's career afternoon and 10 costly La Verne errors Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
By one run or many, Wildcats find ways to win - March 17th 2013
Fueled by the pitching of Karina Paavola and hitting of Karleigh Prestianni and Lisa Yamamoto, Linfield wins both sides of a Northwest Conference doubleheader at Pacific Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Swinging for the Fences - March 16th 2013
Haylie Watson and Lisa Yamamoto each homer twice during an impressive Northwest Conference doubleheader sweep of Lewis & Clark Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Saturday twinbill moves up to 10:30 a.m. - March 15th 2013
Rain is forecast for Saturday afternoon, causing Linfield and Lewis & Clark to begin their Northwest Conference doubleheader 90 minutes sooner than originally scheduled Listen Live | Live Stats
4:10 to Atlanta - March 10th 2013
Playoff adversaries Linfield and Illinois Wesleyan trade punches before their game is halted by time limit in the third-place game of the NFCA Leadoff Classic Tournament Bracket
Two shutouts are better than one - March 9th 2013
Erin Carson pounds five hits while Karina Paavola and Shelby VandeBergh pitch matcing shutouts over Fontbonne and St. Thomas to advance the Wildcats to the semifinals of the NFCA Leadoff Classic Tournament Schedule
'Cats win one, lose another on Day 1 of Leadoff Classic - March 8th 2013
Ninth-ranked Linfield gets 12 hits to fuel a 9-1 victory over No. 22 Ithaca, then drops a tight 2-1 decision to Gustavas Adolphus
Paavola tabbed for NWC Pitcher of the Week honors - March 5th 2013
Seasoned righthander Karina Paavola pitches Linfield to two victories last week, both of them shutouts, vaulting the Wildcats back into first place in the Northwest Conference standings
'Cats claw back into first place - March 3rd 2013
Using a pair of one-hit shutouts, Linfield sweeps aside early season frontrunner Lewis & Clark to assume the top spot in the Northwest Conference standings Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Wallo, Paavola lead Wildcats past Boxers - March 2nd 2013
Megan Wallo swats three doubles and Karina Paavola twirls a two-hit shutout as Linfield gets some of its swagger back in a doubleheader sweep of Pacific Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Saturday games moving to 11 a.m. - March 1st 2013
The threat of wet weather results Linfield's doubleheader with Pacific being moved ahead one hour to 11 a.m. Updated Schedule | Listen Live | Live Stats |
That was Then, This is Now - February 28th 2013
Refusing to lean on past accomplishment, the 2013 Wildcats are focused on reaching their full potential and claiming the program's 10th straight Northwest Conference championship Season Outlook
'Cats, Pirates split again - February 24th 2013
Linfield bounces back from an epic 15-inning loss to Whitworth Saturday by thumping the Pirates 15-3 in Sunday's opening contest before the Bucs post a 7-6 victory in Game 2 Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
The Longest Day - February 23rd 2013
Fifth-ranked Linfield and upstart Whitworth wage a pair of extra-inning stalemates in the season-opening series at Del Smith Stadium Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Doucette among winners at Oregon Sports Awards - February 11th 2013
Linfield softball star Staci Doucette receives the prestigious Ad Rutschman Award, singling out Oregon's top female and male small-college student-athletes Watch the Presentation | Complete List of OSA Winners
Can the 'Cats make it 10? - January 28th 2013
Though Linfield returns 14 letterwinners, including two All-Americans, Pacific Lutheran is picked to end Linfield's nine-year reign as Northwest Conference champion NWC Preseason Coaches Poll
Clinic spots filling up fast - January 4th 2013
Openings remain for the Jan. 26 all-skills clinic for girls ages 8-18 Registration Form (.pdf) | February 2nd Clinic is Full
Lepp named Diamond Sports Catcher of the Year - September 10th 2012
Recent graduate Emilee Lepp's rare combination of speed, power and spotless defense earns distinction as the best catcher in Division III for a second straight year
'Cats come tantalizingly close to repeat title - June 8th 2012
Led by yet another star-studded cast, Linfield continues to assert itself as a national power by reaching the NCAA championship game for the third straight season Season in Review | Updated Record Book
Two 'Cats named Academic All-American - May 22nd 2012
Jaydee Baxter and Karleigh Prestianni are recognized for their scholarly achievement as well as athletic accomplishment by being named to the Capital One Academic All-America team Complete AAA List
Wildcats come one step short of NCAA title - May 21st 2012
Linfield battles through the losers bracket before falling one game short of repeating as Division III national champion Pacific Lutheran Box Score | Montclair State Box Score
Linfield wins twice, stays alive at NCAA Finals - May 20th 2012
The Wildcats hit four home runs and get complete-game victories from pitchers Karina Paavola and Lauren Harvey to draw one step closer to a repeat championship Tufts Box Score | Roanoke Box Score | Interactive Bracket |
Once the Hunter, now the Hunted - May 19th 2012
Defending champion Linfield has twice as many hits and half as many errors but surrenders a late inning home run to fall to NWC rival Pacific Lutheran 5-3 at the NCAA Division III Finals Box Score | Interactive Bracket | Full Video Replay |
Four named NFCA All-Americans - May 18th 2012
Staci Doucette, Emilee Lepp, Karleigh Prestianni and Karina Paavola are honored for outstanding seasons by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Complete NFCA All-America List | Linfield's All-Americans
'Cats put the big chill on Polar Bears - May 18th 2012
Linfield rolls up 14 hits on Ohio Northern but gives up a season-high 13 hits to go with four errors during a 9-5 win in the opening-round game of the NCAA Division III Finals Box Score | Interactive Bracket | Video Highlights |
Back-to-Back? Wildcats chase history at NCAA Finals - May 17th 2012
Defending Division III champion Linfield can become just the third softball program to repeat, but seven quality teams stand in its way Interactive Bracket
Six 'Cats named All-Region - May 15th 2012
Seniors Emilee Lepp, Staci Doucette and Jaydee Baxter highlight six all-West Region selections as announced by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Complete NFCA All-Region List
Here Come the 'Cats! - May 13th 2012
Linfield beats Illinois Wesleyan 6-2 to capture its third straight NCAA regional championship, sending the Wildcats to Salem, Va., to defend their national title Box Score | Bloomington Regional Website
One Hit Wonder - May 12th 2012
Emilee Lepp's clutch three-run homer provides the only scoring in a 3-0 pitchers' duel, putting Linfield in the driver's seat to claim one of eight berths to the NCAA Finals Box Score | Bloomington Regional Website
Quoth the Ravens nevermore: Linfield thumps Anderson - May 11th 2012
Linfield jumps to a big lead early, then rides an eight-strikeout performance by Karina Paavola to advance in the winners bracket of the NCAA Division III Bloomington Regional Box Score | Bloomington Regional Website
Two-out burst lifts Linfield past Benedictine - May 10th 2012
Emilee Lepp and Staci Doucette each contribute clutch hits as the Wildcats down the Eagles 3-0 to advance in the winners bracket of the NCAA Division III Bloomington Regional Box Score | Bloomington Regional Website
Baxter, Prestianni honored for academic achievement - May 9th 2012
Linfield stars Jaydee Baxter and Karleigh Prestianni receive acclaim for their performance in the classroom as well as on the diamond
Repeat the Feat - May 8th 2012
After a two-week layoff, defending NCAA champion Linfield looks to crank up its home run machine at the NCAA Division III regional playoffs in Bloomington, Ill. Watch Live | Listen Live | Live Stats |
Wildcats sent to Land of Lincoln - May 7th 2012
Defending NCAA champion Linfield is headed to Bloomington, Ill., to face Benedictine (Ill.) in the opening round of a eight-team regional playoff tournament hosted by Illinois Wesleyan University Selection Show | Tournament Website
Linfield Softball's 'Rock Star' - May 5th 2012
A conversation with three-time Northwest Conference Player of the Year Staci Doucette reveals she's just a kid at heart
Wildcats clean up in all-star voting - May 3rd 2012
Ten Linfielders - the equivalent of the entire starting lineup - receive Northwest Conference all-star distinction Complete NWC All-Star Team
Playoff announcement coming Monday - May 1st 2012
Linfield's softball faithful will want to set their alarm clocks early for the 7:20 a.m. announcement of the 61-team NCAA playoff tournament field Watch the Announcement Live
Wildcats run out of lives - April 22nd 2012
Linfield twice battles back in the late innings to remain alive at the NWC Playoff Tournament, but Pacific Lutheran ended the Wildcats' hopes of a third comeback with a 3-0 win in the title game Willamette Box Score | Pacific Lutheran Game 1 Box | Pacific Lutheran Game 2 Box |
Lutes knock off Wildcats 3-1 - April 21st 2012
Continuing an epic series that has seen the road team win all five games, fifth-ranked Pacific Lutheran beats No. 1 Linfield 3-1 on the opening day of the Northwest Conference Playoff Tournament George Fox Box Score | Pacific Lutheran Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Doucette picks up another NWC weekly award - April 17th 2012
Senior Staci Doucette shows no signs of slowing down her offensive production as top-ranked Linfield prepares to host the NWC Softball Tournament
NWC Championships coming to Mac - April 16th 2012
With an automatic berth to the NCAA playoffs at stake, Linfield is serving as host for the four-team Northwest Conference Playoff Tournament Saturday and Sunday Championship Web Site | Visitors Guide
Nine is Fine! 'Cats claim ninth crown - April 15th 2012
Staci Doucette has two home runs and Linfield holds off Willamette twice to capture the program's ninth consecutive Northwest Conference championship Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
After upset in the opener, Linfield has last laugh - April 14th 2012
Willamette rides pitcher Alex Watilo to a 2-0 victory in the opener, but the Wildcats answer with an 8-0 shutout in the nightcap to move within one victory of the program's ninth straight NWC title Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
She'll go to bat for the good guys - April 10th 2012
With a nose-to-the-grindstone work ethic and love of pressure situations, Jordan Mixsell would have no problem fitting into the intense world of law enforcement
Late-inning push propels 'Cats - April 7th 2012
George Fox hangs close with No. 1 Linfield in both games before the Wildcats get their offense untracked Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Bruins go down swinging - April 6th 2012
Pitchers Lauren Harvey, Karina Paavola and Shelby VandeBergh combine for 16 strikeouts as Linfield clinches its eighth-straight 30-win season Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Linfield Season-by-Season |
Mixsell's game-winner earns her NWC honors - April 3rd 2012
Senior outfielder Jordan Mixsell gets the player of the week nod for lifting the 'Cats to a key victory over the Lutes in a showdown of championship contenders
Garcia, Lepp, Paavola key road sweep - April 2nd 2012
Ashley Garcia and Emilee Lepp both tap four hits and Karina Paavola records a career-high 12 strikeouts as Linfield moves closer to its ninth straight conference title Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
No Foolin'! 'Cats wrestle first place from Lutes - April 1st 2012
Smacking six home runs, Linfield avenges its only losses of the season by knocking off No. 7 Pacific Lutheran twice in Parkland Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Friday twinbill starts at 4 p.m. - April 1st 2012
The start of Friday's Linfield-George Fox doubleheader moves to the late afternoon in order to avoid additional missed class time Updated Schedule
Saturday games moved to Monday - March 30th 2012
Linfield's Northwest Conference doubleheader at Puget Sound shifts to Monday at 3 o'clock due to forecast of heavy rain Updated Schedule
Doucette is NFCA National Player of the Week - March 28th 2012
The National Fastpitch Coaches Association honors Linfield slugger Staci Doucette as its Louisville Slugger National Division III Player of the Week NFCA Release
Doucette cans NWC Player of Week honors - March 27th 2012
Senior Staci Doucette continues to put up big numbers to lead the top-ranked Wildcats to six straight victories in southern California
'Cats clean Bulldogs' clock - March 27th 2012
Linfield posts consecutive shutouts of ninth-ranked Redlands, getting commanding pitching performances from Lauren Harvey and Karina Paavola, plus two home runs from Karleigh Prestianni Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Close but no cigar for CMS - March 25th 2012
Clutch performances by pitchers Shelby VandeBergh and Karina Paavola, plus sluggers Karleigh Prestianni and Staci Doucette, carry Linfield past upset-minded Claremont-Mudd-Scripps Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Double the pleasure, triple the fun - March 23rd 2012
Linfield aces Lauren Harvey and Karina Paavola toss back-to-back complete-game shutouts and Emilee Lepp sets the career triples record in a sweep of Chapman Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
'Cats crown Regals to begin California Adventure - March 22nd 2012
One day after regaining the No. 1 spot in the coaches poll, Linfield dominates Cal Lutheran 11-2 and 10-0 to open up a 10-game circuit through southern California Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Paavola named NWC Pitcher of the Week - March 20th 2012
Sophomore Karina Paavola continues to assert herself on the mound, throwing her second no-no of the year to help the 'Cats get back to their winning ways
Mixsell, Lepp, Paavola key sweep of L&C - March 18th 2012
Jordan Mixsell and Emilee Lepp each account for four hits, and Karina Paavola tosses her second no-hitter of the season for the Wildcats, who improve to 16-2 for the season Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Doucette, 'Cats continue record-setting pace - March 17th 2012
Staci Doucette becomes NCAA Division III's all-time home runs leader and Linfield hits five homers to rout Pacific twice, 10-2 and 12-1 Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Lute rallies leave Wildcats scratching heads - March 11th 2012
Pacific Lutheran assembles back-to-back come-from-behind victories, dealing Linfield its first conference losses in 365 days Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Top-ranked Linfield squashes Puget Sound - March 10th 2012
The visiting Loggers fall victim to a two big innings during a doubleheader sweep at the hands of the defending national champions Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Catballers sweep NWC weekly awards - March 6th 2012
Second baseman Ashley Garcia and right-handed pitcher Karina Paavola are honored as the Northwest Conference's top players after leading the No. 1 Wildcats to six dominating victories
Shutout pitching + 18 hits = 2 wins - March 4th 2012
Karina Paavola and Lauren Harvey pitch matching shutouts and the Wildcats do their usual damage at the plate during a doubleheader sweep of the Pacific Boxers Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score | Photo Gallery |
Home-run happy Wildcats pound Pioneers - March 3rd 2012
Linfield swats seven home runs in a 10-inning span and the Wildcats run away from Lewis & Clark in a pair of run-rule shortened games Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Prestianni is NWC Player of the Week - February 29th 2012
Junior thirdbaseman Karleigh Prestianni earns Linfield's first Northwest Conference Softball Student-Athlete of the Week honor after leading the top-ranked Wildcats to six victories over the past week
Weather-marred series comes to an end, finally - February 27th 2012
Despite the series being relocated twice, Linfield does what is expected, sweeping Northwest Conference foe Whitworth by lopsided margins Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Doucette, Garcia spark Wildcats - February 26th 2012
Staci Doucette hammers two home runs and Ashley Garcia drives in six runs as Linfield thumps Whitworth 13-2 and 10-1 Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Picking Up Where They Left Off - February 23rd 2012
With last season's national championship in the rearview mirror, Linfield turns its attention to continuing the program's tradition of deep playoff runs Season Outlook | 2012 Schedule
'Cats clobber Cavs to start 2012 - February 22nd 2012
Five home runs, including two by slugger Karleigh Prestianni, lift No. 1 Linfield past NAIA foe Concordia-Portland Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score
Whitworth series shifts to Pasco - February 21st 2012
For the second straight year, poor field conditions forces the Linfield-Whitworth series to move to the Tri-Cities Columbia Basin CC map | Directions to Columbia Basin CC
Defending champs to start season No. 1 - February 1st 2012
With a wealth of offensive firepower and pitching coming back, the Linfield Wildcats begin their second consecutive season as the top-ranked team in NCAA Division III NFCA Preseason Top 25 | 2012 Roster | 2012 Schedule |
'Cats top NWC preseason poll - January 30th 2012
Returning four first team All-NWC honorees from last year's Northwest Conference and NCAA championship club, Linfield is picked by coaches to win its ninth consecutive league title Read More
Stadium named in honor of Del Smith - November 14th 2011
Linfield's softball facility is named for the aviation pioneer in recognition of his longtime support to the college and its athletic programs Evolution of Del Smith Stadium
Catballers lauded for academic achivements - October 7th 2011
Twelve Linfield student-athletes are named National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-America Scholar-Athletes NFCA News Release
