2026 Lassen College Softball Season Preview
The 2026 Lassen College softball team enters the season with a strong blend of veteran leadership and dynamic newcomers, building on last year’s competitive foundation. After battling in conference play and remaining in contention late into the season, the Cougars return a core of experienced sophomores determined to push the program forward. With pitching depth, proven offensive production, and a roster rich in accolades, Lassen is positioned to make noise in the Golden Valley Conference.
Leading the charge in the circle is sophomore Lauren Emery (Menlo, WA), a Second Team All-Conference selection at Lassen who was also a two-time First Team All-Conference honoree in high school and an All-Academic standout. Joining her is fellow sophomore Abby Lynn (Susanville, CA) and freshman Ramona Ryder (Oak Harbor, WA), giving the Cougars multiple arms capable of controlling games. Freshman Hanisi To’afa (American Samoa) adds additional depth in the circle, rounding out a staff that combines experience with promising upside.
Offensively, Lassen brings back impact sophomores who have already proven themselves at the collegiate level. Nadia Velazquez (Wadsworth, NV), a First Team All-GVC selection as a freshman, anchors the outfield alongside hometown standout Abigail Robles (Susanville, CA) and multi-sport competitor Emma Wayas (Wickenburg, AZ), whose resume includes multiple all-region and all-conference honors. In the middle infield, Taylor Lauritsen (Napa, CA) returns after earning a Gold Glove nomination, Second Team All-Conference honors, and Kiwanis Softball MVP recognition. At second base, Tristyn Lenz (Herriman, UT), a First Team All-State selection in high school, adds grit and consistency to the lineup.
The freshman class brings serious talent and championship pedigree. Kehaulani Tambaoan-Kaeo (Waianae, HI) arrives as the 2025 Northern Nevada Offensive Player of the Year and a multi-year First Team selection. Lillian “Lilly” Fanene (Salinas, CA) boasts multiple First Team All-League honors and elite academic achievements, while Jhan’z Kaawa-Kawai and Jenna Ku (both Nanakuli, HI) add athleticism and versatility. Lilinoe Kuhaulua-Leong (Anahola, HI), Jordin Maynard (Portland, OR), Lucy Olson (Susanville, CA), Izach Benavidez (Albuquerque, NM), and Zoey Heffelfinger (Parma, ID), a two-time First Team All-Softball honoree and Principal’s List student, round out a class that raises the program’s overall ceiling.
Defensively, Lassen features versatility across the field, with multiple players capable of shifting positions seamlessly. Catchers Zoey Heffelfinger and Lilly Fanene bring strong arms and leadership behind the plate, while players like Alyssa McOmie (Magna, UT)—a Student of the Year and First Team All-Region selection—and Danielle Martinez (Reno, NV) provide depth and experience in the corners and outfield. Across the roster, nearly every Cougar brings all-league recognition, academic honors, or championship experience from their high school careers.
The 2026 Cougars are athletic, experienced, and hungry. With proven arms in the circle, returning all-conference talent, and an infusion of high-achieving freshmen from across the West and Pacific Islands, Lassen softball is built not just to compete—but to contend.