RALEIGH, N.C. - William Peace University softball has been selected fifth in the 2026 USA South Athletic Conference preseason poll, as voted on by the league's head coaches.

The Pacers return a strong core of experienced players after posting a 20-21 overall record and a 6-12 mark in conference play last season. With key leadership returning in the circle and behind the plate, Peace looks to build on last year's momentum.

Senior pitcher Reagan Stewart will once again anchor the Pacers' pitching staff. Stewart has produced three dominant seasons since transferring from North Greenville prior to her sophomore year. Last season, she logged over 100 innings in the circle, finishing with nine wins and 59 strikeouts while making 19 starts.

The Pacers will also rely on sophomore catcher Isabelle Olson, who emerged as a key offensive contributor last season. Olson started 34 games and finished with a .324 batting average, collecting 33 hits, eight home runs, and 26 RBIs. Her presence behind the plate and ability to deliver timely power provided a spark for the lineup, and she looks to make a similar impact this season.

Peace will be tasked with filling the void left by Adanya Day, who departed as one of the most accomplished players in program history. Day was a dominant power hitter and defensive presence at third base, setting multiple records during her career and serving as a cornerstone of the Pacers' offense.

William Peace opens the 2026 season on the road with a doubleheader at Roanoke on February 21, with first pitch scheduled for 1 p.m. followed by a 3 p.m. contest.