Vermillion, S.D. — As the vibrant colors of autumn start to envelop the prairies of South Dakota, anticipation builds among the fans of South Dakota Softball. The team’s 2025 season kicks off with a promising opening weekend at the East Texas A&M Leadoff tournament in Commerce, Texas. Known as the Coyotes, the team is set to face formidable opponents, igniting the hearts of many in the Mount Rushmore State.
This weekend’s tournament will see the Coyotes play against Texas Southern, Stephen F. Austin, and the host team, East Texas A&M, between February 7th and 9th, 2025. This marks the ninth edition of the tournament that promises intense softball action.
South Dakota’s resilience is a hallmark, having been picked to finish third in the highly competitive Summit League Preseason Poll for 2025. Their 2024 season saw them finish fifth in the league with a 7-10 conference record, standing testament to their grit and tenacity.
The team brings back a powerhouse trio in Tatum Villotta, Clara Edwards, and Delaney White — all returning All-Summit League players poised to make an indelible impact this season.
Let’s delve deeper into what makes these players and this team a remarkable story for South Dakota and college softball enthusiasts across the nation.
- Tatum Villotta: Villotta commands attention with her remarkable stats. Last season, she led the Coyotes with 54 hits and a 10-game hitting streak, showcasing her consistency and flair at bat. Known for her adaptability, she started all 53 games, a feat that highlights her endurance and reliability on the field.
- Clara Edwards: As the team’s ace, Edwards pitched valiantly through 157.1 innings during the 2024 season, achieving an 8-13 record. Her impressive 2.76 ERA and 121 strikeouts underscored her prowess and determination on the pitcher’s mound. Edwards is no stranger to high-pressure situations, having notched a career-high 13 strikeouts in a complete game shutout against Abilene Christian.
Clara Edwards
- Delaney White: A stalwart in the infield, White’s contribution to the team goes beyond her impressive stats. With 45 hits, eight doubles, and 23 RBIs last season, she led the team with 13 multi-hit games, exemplifying her batting dynamism. Her defensive skills and strategic thinking make her an invaluable asset to the Coyotes.
Delaney White
The Coyotes’ lineup is further strengthened by the promising talents of pitcher McKenna Young and freshmen Madison Evans and Campbell German. Evans, crowned South Dakota Gatorade Player of the Year, and German, a multi-year All-State honoree, infuse fresh energy and potential into an already robust squad.
South Dakota’s fan base, known for its steadfast loyalty and enthusiasm, eagerly awaits the performance of the Coyotes. The state, celebrated for its wide-open spaces and robust community spirit, rallies behind these athletes, recognizing their hard work, talent, and determination.
Opposition Highlights
As the Coyotes rise to the competitive challenges ahead, their opponents present an exciting juxtaposition of styles and skills:
- Texas Southern: The Tigers come off a solid 2024 season, finishing with a 21-19 record. Their standout player, Paris Johnson, led with a .411 batting average, and her offensive prowess will be something for the Coyotes to counter strategically.
- East Texas A&M: Ranked 44th in the NCAA for stolen bases, the Lions are known for their agility and speed. While they were predicted to finish tenth in the Southland Conference, underestimating their ability to upset their competitors would be a misstep.
- Stephen F. Austin: Despite a challenging 2024 season, the Lumberjacks are eager to bounce back. With proven hitters like Ellie Vance in their ranks, they bring a competitive edge that promises to test the Coyotes’ mettle.
The upcoming games are not just a series of matchups but a celebration of South Dakota’s athletic spirit, determination, and regional pride. As the Coyotes embark on their journey this season, the support from Vermillion and beyond is unwavering.
Stay connected with all things Coyotes by following South Dakota Athletics on social media. For more insights and updates, check their Facebook at /SDCoyotes, follow them on X (Twitter) at @SDCoyotes, or catch up on their Instagram at @sdcoyotes. #GoYotes #WeAreSouthDakota