With the fall season just around the corner, Florida’s softball programs are making big moves. From new schedules to fresh recruits and exciting coaching hires, there’s plenty to keep fans buzzing. Here’s what’s happening across the Florida softball landscape as we head into the 2024 season.

The Florida State Seminoles have released their nine-game fall schedule, which kicks off on October 4. Seven of the games will be played at the Seminole Softball Complex, and the best part? All fall home games are free to attend. That means fans will have ample opportunities to see this talented squad in action without spending a dime.

The Seminoles, who made waves last season, return seven starters from their 2023 lineup, along with three pitchers who took the mound last year. Leading the pack is National Freshman of the Year and NFCA Second Team All-American, Jaysoni Beachum. She’s joined by NFCA Third Team All-American Michaela Edenfield, as well as five All-ACC players: Beachum, Edenfield, Ashtyn Danley, Isa Torres, and Jahni Kerr.

FSU isn’t just relying on its returning players to get the job done; they’ve brought in six new faces for the 2025 season, including another top-five recruiting class. Among the newcomers are Addie Delong, Jazzy Francik, Shelby McKenzie, and Isabella Ruggiero. FSU also made some smart moves in the transfer market by picking up Julia Apsel and Annabelle Widra.

Apsel, a transfer pitcher, brings a stellar 1.39 ERA and 20 complete games from 31 starts. Widra, who transferred from Auburn, is a dual-threat as both an infielder and pitcher. She appeared in 49 games for Auburn, starting in multiple positions and boasting a .259 batting average, two home runs, and nine RBIs. In the circle, she posted a 2.86 ERA with 38 strikeouts and only three walks over 41.2 innings.

With such an impressive mix of returning talent and new recruits, the Seminoles are positioned for a strong fall season as they prep for 2025.

2024 Florida State Softball Fall Schedule:

October 4 – vs. Chipola – 5 p.m.
October 6 – vs. West Florida – 1 p.m.
October 12 – vs. St. Johns River State College – 2 p.m.
October 13 – at Troy – 2 p.m. est/1 p.m. cst
October 19 – vs. Gulf Coast State College – 2 p.m.
October 27 – at Florida – 2 p.m.
November 3 – vs. South Alabama – 2 p.m.
November 8 – vs. Team Canada – 5 p.m.
November 9 – vs. Auburn – Noon

While FSU’s fall schedule is making headlines, Stetson and FAU are also making big moves in the coaching department.

Stetson’s Head Coach Shellie Cousins recently announced the addition of Chris Jones to her staff for the 2025 season. With over 30 years of experience as both a player and coach, Jones brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the Hatters’ program.

Jones’ resume is nothing short of impressive. He’s been involved with Canada’s National Team Program for several years, including serving as an assistant coach for the Canadian Women’s Elite Team and the Women’s National Team at the 2019 Pan American Games. Jones will work with Stetson’s infielders and hitters, a perfect fit given his extensive experience on the national stage.

“I am thrilled to announce Chris Jones as our assistant coach,” said Cousins. “He brings so much knowledge and passion to our program and I look forward to learning from him. With his playing and coaching experience at the national level, I know he will improve our team in many different ways.”

Katelynn De Leon, a former catcher for Florida Atlantic University (FAU), is staying close to the game, joining FAU’s coaching staff as an assistant coach. Head Coach Jordan Clark made the announcement following De Leon’s stellar playing career, which saw her earn a spot on the All-AAC Team. The Owls had an outstanding 2024 season, winning 41 games and clinching the American Athletic Conference regular-season title.

De Leon will bring her on-field experience to the coaching ranks, having been a key part of FAU’s success. Beyond her playing career, she also serves as the head coach for the Rock softball travel team in South Florida and has worked at TBT Sports Academy in Boca Raton. Her roots in the area, combined with her experience playing for Troy University before transferring to FAU, make her an exciting addition to the program.