CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa -- Wartburg softball has been selected to finish second overall in the 2026 American Rivers Conference Preseason Coaches' Poll, the league announced today.
The Knights earned 54 points with one first-place vote, marking their highest preseason ranking since being the favorite prior to the 2023 season. Wartburg made its fourth-consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament last season where the Knights fell in the regional round.
Head coach
Jamie Mueller, entering her 11
th season at the helm, has compiled a 222-150 overall record including two A-R-C tournament titles and five NCAA tournament appearances. Over her 11 seasons, Mueller has coached 36 All-Conference players, three A-R-C MVPs, 19 All-Region selections, and three All-Americans.
From the A-R-C
Wartburg College was picked second after another successful season in 2025 that included a shared A-R-C regular season title and NCAA Tournament appearance. Head coach
Jamie Mueller's squad finished 25-17 overall and 11-5 in conference action last season. The Knights return six position starters, including all-conference outfielder
Carley Bredar, while looking to replace key pieces. With postseason experience and a balanced roster, Wartburg is expected to challenge for the league crown again.
"In a conference as strong as the A-R-C, it's hard to predict what a season will be like," said Mueller. "Each doubleheader presents its own challenges, and we know we need to bring our best each day in order to have success. We are excited for the journey of a new season and will work hard to consistently put our best foot forward in 2026."
2026 A-R-C SOFTBALL PRESEASON COACHES' POLL
| Place |
Team (First-place votes) |
Points |
| 1. |
Simpson (7) |
62 |
| 2. |
Wartburg (1) |
54 |
| 3. |
Central (1) |
47 |
| 4. |
Loras |
44 |
| 5. |
Luther |
36 |
| T-6. |
Coe |
24 |
| T-6. |
Univ. of Dubuque |
24 |
| 8. |
Nebraska Wesleyan |
21 |
| 9. |
Buena Vista |
12 |
