Cobleskill, NY: The SUNY Cobleskill softball team is ready to hit the diamond for the 2025 season after being voted the top team in the North Atlantic Conference (NAC) West Division Preseason Poll. Following a strong 2024 campaign that saw them finish second in the division and clinch a NAC Tournament berth, the Fighting Tigers posted a 19-17 overall record, including an impressive 11-3 mark in conference play.

Under the leadership of third-year head coach Morgan Flamholtz, Cobleskill looks to build off last year's success, which marked the program's first winning season since 2015. With a balanced mix of veteran returners and fresh talent, the team is poised to keep the momentum rolling.

"This year, we have a strong core of returners blended with a talented group of newcomers," said Flamholtz. "The team has come together naturally this year, and we're excited to see that chemistry translate onto the field."

Leading the charge is junior ace Jaydaci Chamberlain (Northborough, MA/Norfolk County Ag), a First-Team All-NAC selection who dominated in the circle last season. Chamberlain posted a 10-4 record in 19 appearances, including 14 starts with 11 complete games and a shutout. She logged 104.1 innings, striking out 36 batters and finishing with a 3.28 ERA. At the plate, Second-Team All-NAC outfielder Jenna Smyczynski (East Aurora, NY) made an immediate impact in her rookie campaign, hitting .405 (34-for-84) with three doubles, a triple, seven stolen bases, nine RBI, and 12 runs scored.

"Jayda is going to be a key returner for us in the circle," said Flamholtz. "She's coming off a First-Team All-Conference year and looking to build on that success. Jenna adds a lot of versatility to our lineup with her speed and ability to get on base."

Also returning are senior catcher Mackenzie Wendelken (Stuyvesant, NY/Ichabod Crane) and second baseman Kylie Rattigan (Poughkeepsie, NY/Arlington), both of whom played integral roles last season.

"Having Mackenzie behind the plate as a senior captain provides strong leadership on the field," Flamholtz added. "Kylie played every inning of last season, and her consistency at second base gives us a solid defensive presence."

The Fighting Tigers welcome a talented group of newcomers expected to make an immediate impact. Gabriella Wendelken (Stuyvesant, NY/Ichabod Crane) brings versatility as a true utility player who can contribute in the circle, at first base, or in the outfield. Speedy first-year outfielder Avery Prievo (Camden, NY) adds athleticism and range to the outfield, while Aliyah Neeser (Forest Lake, Minn/Forest Lake Area) returns from an injury-shortened freshman season, looking to make her mark behind the plate, in the outfield, and with her bat.

"Gabby Wendelken and Avery Prievo will be impact players right away," Flamholtz said. "Gabby is dominant in the circle and gives us depth across multiple positions. Avery's speed and composure allow her to cover a lot of ground and finish plays. Getting Aliyah back is big for us—she brings leadership behind the plate and versatility in the lineup."

Cobleskill opens its season on Saturday, March 8, with a matchup against Westfield State University at 9:00 a.m. at the Gene Cusic Collegiate Classic in Naples, Florida. The Fighting Tigers are eager to put their hard work to the test as they embark on what promises to be an exciting season.