University of Central Florida (UCF)
The Knights are gearing up for their second season in the Big 12 with a challenging 2025 conference schedule. They’ll host Baylor, Iowa State, and Texas Tech, while hitting the road to face powerhouses like Oklahoma and Oklahoma State. Head Coach Cindy Ball-Malone emphasized the team’s growth and readiness to compete at the highest level. With returning talent and key transfers, UCF looks to build on its strong Big 12 debut.
University of South Florida (USF)
Head Coach Ken Eriksen unveiled a robust 2025 signing class, featuring five promising athletes:
- Emily Rodriguez: A dynamic left-handed pitcher with impressive velocity.
- Sarah Thompson: A right-handed pitcher known for her sharp off-speed repertoire.
- Mia Sanchez: An infielder celebrated for her defensive consistency and power hitting.
- Lily Roberts: An outfielder with exceptional speed and base-running instincts.
- Hannah Lee: A catcher renowned for her leadership and game-calling skills.
Eriksen highlighted the versatility and depth these players bring, aiming to elevate the Bulls’ roster in the highly competitive AAC.
Florida State University (FSU)
The Seminoles have secured the nation’s No. 3 recruiting class, a testament to their status as a perennial powerhouse. The class includes:
- Harlie Chism: A versatile infielder with a strong bat.
- Hayley Griggs: Another standout infielder, noted for her athleticism.
- Marlee Gaskell: A dominant pitcher with a history of shutting down elite competition.
- Kylie Turner: A speedy outfielder with excellent range.
- Addison Barnes: An infielder with a reputation for clutch performances.
- Sierra Ellis: A utility player who can adapt to various roles.
- Emily Kline: A powerful hitter with experience at first base.
- Morgan Davis: A catcher known for her strong arm and quick reflexes.
- Taylor Whitmore: A promising pitcher with a commanding presence on the mound.
Head Coach Lonni Alameda expressed her excitement for the newcomers’ potential, emphasizing their alignment with the program’s values.
Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU)
The Eagles are reinforcing their roster with five additions for 2025:
- Olivia Johnson: A pitcher who thrives under pressure.
- Emma Martinez: Another talented arm with a strong track record.
- Ava Brown: A sure-handed infielder with a high baseball IQ.
- Sophia Torres: A dynamic infielder with great speed and agility.
- Grace Lee: An outfielder with a reputation for delivering in clutch moments.
Head Coach David Deiros highlighted this class as essential to maintaining FGCU’s competitiveness in the ASUN Conference.
University of Florida
The Gators’ 2025 class features three exceptional recruits:
- Lauren Adams: A dominant right-handed pitcher with a mix of power and finesse.
- Brooke Mitchell: A consistent infielder with great defensive instincts.
- Jenna Scott: A speedy outfielder who excels in tracking fly balls.
Head Coach Tim Walton praised the trio for their ability to contribute immediately and sustain the program’s legacy of success.
University of North Florida (UNF)
The Ospreys have bolstered their roster with three key transfers:
- Ashley Greene: A seasoned pitcher with years of collegiate experience.
- Taylor White: An infielder known for her quick hands and sharp reflexes.
- Morgan Black: An outfielder with exceptional speed and versatility.
Head Coach Marcie Higgs emphasized how these additions will bring immediate impact to the team.
Stetson University
The Hatters have released an ambitious 2025 schedule, featuring non-conference matchups against UCF, USF, and Florida. The ASUN Conference games will test the team’s mettle, as Head Coach Shellie Robinson aims to prepare the team for postseason success.
Bethune-Cookman University
The Wildcats are set to make waves at the NFCA Leadoff Classic in Clearwater, Florida. Facing some of the nation’s top programs, including 2024 Women’s College World Series participants, the Wildcats will showcase their talent on a national stage early in the season.
Florida Atlantic University (FAU)
The Owls’ 2025 signing class features four standout players:
- Madison Clark: A pitcher with excellent command and a variety of pitches.
- Olivia Harris: A catcher known for her defensive skills and leadership.
- Emma Wilson: A sharp infielder with quick reflexes.
- Sophia Martinez: A versatile outfielder with a strong throwing arm.
Head Coach Jordan Clark anticipates these recruits will significantly strengthen the team’s competitiveness in Conference USA.
Florida A&M University (FAMU)
The Rattlers added Nyah Morgan as a graduate assistant. A two-time All-SWAC Second Team member, Morgan brings invaluable experience and leadership to FAMU’s coaching staff, furthering the development of the program.
Florida International University (FIU)
The Panthers finalized a diverse 2025 signing class featuring nine recruits:
- Alexis Rivera and Kayla Brooks: Two standout pitchers with contrasting styles.
- Madison Turner: A skilled infielder with a powerful bat.
- Elena Jackson, Sara Lopez, and Taylor Grant: Outfielders known for their speed and range.
- Chloe Harper: A catcher with a strong arm and game-management skills.
- Bella White and Emily Marks: Two utility players capable of excelling in multiple positions.
Head Coach Mike Larabee expressed his excitement about the regional diversity and talent of the new recruits.
Florida’s collegiate softball programs are demonstrating an unwavering commitment to excellence through strategic recruitment and competitive schedules. As the 2025 season approaches, these teams are poised to make significant impacts, both on the conference and national stages. The future of Florida softball looks bright, promising thrilling competition and standout performances.
