Winston Salem Times

As the 2025 softball season nears, Carolina University is ready to build on a successful previous year. With nearly all starting players returning and new talent joining, Head Coach Jay Johnson and Assistant Coach Grace Johnson are prepared for the upcoming challenges.

The Bruins will start their season with a doubleheader against Spartanburg Methodist College on February 12th at Wilson Park. "Opening day jitters are always a thing, but we've been preparing for a while now," said Coach Johnson. He expressed enthusiasm about facing Spartanburg Methodist, which is transitioning from JUCO to NAIA.

Coach Johnson looks forward to the early March games against Grace College, significant for Assistant Coach Heather Johnson as it is her alma mater. The Bruins aim to elevate their competition level by playing against teams like Milligan University and participating in the CAC Classic hosted by Spartanburg Methodist.

Replacing key leadership is one of the challenges this season. Grace Johnson was last season's standout player with 14 home runs. First Team NCCAA All-American Zy'Maijah "Z" Thomas will take over as leadoff hitter. "Our goal this year is to steal 100 bases," explained Coach Jay Johnson.

Defensively, the outfield has been nicknamed "the graveyard" due to its effectiveness in tracking fly balls. The team aims to improve speed and reliability this season.

Under Coaches Jay and Grace Johnson, the team's culture emphasizes strong leadership and accountability among players. Off-field training led by Coach Matt Glidewell focuses on improving strength and speed.

The team returns almost its entire record-breaking lineup from 2024, including Danielle Brooks leading the pitching staff for her fifth season. Madalyn Morton joins as a Graduate Assistant after being named 2024 NCCAA Player of the Year.

Key returners include Kalea "Bolch" Bolch at first base and centerfielder Zy'Maijah Thomas, who have shown significant improvements during offseason training. Other returning players such as Jocelyn DeMoss and Nicole Otto are expected to contribute significantly again this year.

Newcomers like Cam Hays and Emily Wilson have shown promise in fall practices. Gina Sullivan steps into the shortstop role with confidence while other newcomers add depth across various positions.

With a talented roster focused on leadership development, Carolina University Bruins aim for success in the NCCAA this season. "We're excited to compete at a higher level this year," said Coach Jay Johnson.