Photo Courtesy of UCF Athletics
As the 2025 college softball season approaches, several top-tier programs are bolstering their ranks with key signings and strategic coaching additions. The University of Central Florida (UCF), Florida State University (FSU), the University of Florida, and Jacksonville University (JU) have all made significant moves to enhance their squads, setting the stage for an exciting year in collegiate softball.
UCF Softball Welcomes Stacie Pestrak to Coaching Staff
The UCF softball team has made a significant addition to their coaching staff with the hiring of Stacie Pestrak. Joining head coach Cindy Ball-Malone’s team, Pestrak becomes the third new addition this summer, alongside Noah Sanders and Shannon Saile. Pestrak’s arrival follows an impressive tenure at Oklahoma State, where she was part of the 2024 ATEC/NFCA Midwest Region Coaching Staff of the Year.
During her nine seasons with the Cowgirls, Pestrak served as an assistant coach and director of operations, playing a crucial role in the team’s consistent success. Her expertise is expected to be a valuable asset for the Knights as they prepare for the 2025 season.
FSU Signs Versatile Transfer Annabelle Widra
Florida State University’s softball program, under the guidance of head coach Lonni Alameda, has secured the signing of pitcher and utility player Annabelle Widra. Widra, transferring from Auburn, will have one year of eligibility remaining.
Widra’s versatility on the field is noteworthy. In 2024, she made 53 starts and 92 appearances, playing multiple positions including third base, second base, shortstop, and pitcher. At the plate, she hit .259 with 11 RBIs and two home runs. In the circle, she posted a 2.86 ERA over 41.2 innings, highlighted by a complete-game shutout against Alabama.
In 2023, Widra’s performance was equally impressive, with a .250 batting average and 79.2 innings pitched, earning a 2.72 ERA and an exceptional strikeout-to-walk ratio of 75:17, ranking her sixth in the SEC.
Florida Gators Add Graduate Transfer Rylee Holtorf
The University of Florida softball team, led by head coach Tim Walton, has announced the addition of graduate transfer infielder Rylee Holtorf from Washington. Holtorf, who will have one year of eligibility left, brings a wealth of experience to the Gators.
Holtorf’s accolades include being named to the 2024 All-PAC-12 First Team. Over her career with the Huskies, she posted a .290 batting average with 21 doubles, four triples, 17 home runs, 78 runs scored, and 56 RBIs. Her experience and skill are expected to significantly bolster the Gators’ lineup as they aim to build on their success at the Women’s College World Series last year.
JU Dolphins Strengthen Coaching Staff with Millie Thompson
Jacksonville University’s softball program has enhanced its coaching staff with the addition of Millie Thompson as a graduate assistant. Head coach Erica Ayers expressed enthusiasm about Thompson’s arrival, highlighting her high-level pitching experience and knowledge.
Thompson, a former standout pitcher at Clemson University, brings a robust academic and athletic background to JU. She was a consistent presence on the All-ACC Academic Team and ACC Honor Roll and earned accolades such as CSC Academic All-District and Easton/NFCA All-America Scholar Athlete. On the field, she was named Third Team All-ACC for three consecutive years (2022, 2023, 2024).
The upcoming 2025 college softball season promises to be highly competitive and thrilling. UCF, FSU, the Florida Gators, and JU Dolphins have all strengthened their teams with key signings and coaching hires, setting the stage for an exciting year ahead. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these new talents and experienced coaches impact their programs.
