Richardson, TX - The Lone Star Conference released its 2026 softball preseason poll and awards on Wednesday, setting the stage for what once again projects to be one of the deepest and most competitive leagues in NCAA Division II.

The Western New Mexico Softball Team was picked 14th in the preseason poll and enters the 2026 campaign with confidence, experience and growing recognition across the league.

UT Tyler earned the top spot in the poll with 39 first-place votes, followed closely by West Texas A&M and Angelo State. Oklahoma Christian and Lubbock Christian round out the preseason top five, underscoring the battle-tested nature of the conference from top to bottom.

Angelo State's Tatiana Trotter was named the LSC Preseason Player of the Year after a dominant junior campaign, while Oklahoma Christian senior Jill Dickson earned Preseason Pitcher of the Year recognition. Both athletes headline a list of elite returners that will challenge every lineup across the conference in 2026.

WNMU Outfielder Lauryn Carbajal (Tucson, AZ/Sunnyside High School) was named a Preseason Player to Watch. Carbajal, a kinesiology major from Tucson, Arizona, emerged as one of the Mustangs' most consistent offensive threats last season, combining speed, defensive versatility and a disciplined approach at the plate.

In the circle, Pitcher Labraida Tenorio (Rio Rancho, NM/Rio Rancho High School) earned Preseason Pitcher to Watch honors, highlighting the Mustangs' strength and experience in the pitching team. A marketing major from Rio Rancho, New Mexico, Tenorio brings veteran leadership and composure to the mound and is expected to anchor the WNMU team throughout the spring.

The Mustangs will begin play at the Los Lunas Tournament, January 30th, in Los Lunas, NM and will look to continue to build on the momentum of last season's performances. Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).