The program faces a significant transition after the 2026 season with the departure of three talented sophomores: Karlee Ford, Sami Potvin, and Victoria Prado. These athletes, known for their exceptional contributions both on the field and in academics, are seeking new opportunities elsewhere, leaving a void that will necessitate a strategic rebuilding phase for the team.
Karlee Ford's two seasons were marked by remarkable performance and rapid ascension. In 2026, she received notable recognition, including the NFCA Midwest All-Region Second Team and All-Big 12 Second Team honors. Starting all 55 games, she led the team in hits and was second in RBIs, demonstrating her consistent impact at the plate. Her season highlights included ten home runs and a memorable walk-off grand slam, underscoring her clutch performance. Ford's defensive reliability was equally impressive, maintaining a stellar .983 fielding percentage as a catcher, a position she secured as a freshman due to her consistent play and high fielding percentage.
Sami Potvin, despite a medical redshirt in 2026, etched her name into the program's history books with an extraordinary freshman year in 2025. She achieved a rare five-inning perfect game, retiring every batter and recording nine strikeouts against Grambling State—a pitching feat not seen in over four decades. Her debut season featured 17 appearances, a 2-0 record, and a strong academic standing, earning her spots on the Big 12 Academic All-Rookie Team and the Commissioner’s Honor Roll. Victoria Prado also excelled in both athletics and academics, earning NFCA All-America Scholar Athlete honors in 2025. As a designated player, she expanded her role in 2026, achieving personal bests in RBIs and hits. Her consistent academic success, mirrored by her inclusion on the Big 12 Academic All-Rookie Team and the Commissioner’s Honor Roll, showcased her dedication to excellence in all aspects of her collegiate career.
The departure of these three outstanding individuals, while undoubtedly a loss, presents an opportunity for the program to cultivate new talent and adapt its strategies. Their legacies of athletic and academic excellence will continue to inspire future generations of athletes, reminding everyone that dedication, hard work, and a positive mindset are the true hallmarks of success.
