In The Circle

Although this is the final In The Circle podcast of 2025, we’re closing the year with another jam-packed episode. On today’s show, powered by SixFour3, we return to the Sun Belt.First, Louisiana head coach Alyson Habetz reflects on her first season at the helm and the lessons learned along the way. She also breaks down hosting the upcoming Sun Belt Conference Tournament.Then, Marshall head coach Morgan Zerkle shares what made 2025 a success both as a coach and as a player in the AUSL. She also discusses what it means to represent Team USA once again in Australia to close out the year.The guys wrap things up with their final thoughts on the year that was and what they’re most looking forward to in 2026.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today’s episode of In The Circle, powered by SixFour3, takes us to the Ivy League. Victor opens the episode by sending love to Brown University following the tragic shooting that took place last weekend. Our interview with Brown head coach Mary Holt Kelsch will re-air at a later time. We will still hear from Princeton head coach Lisa Van Ackeren, who shares what has made the Tigers the top team in the Ivy and discusses the growing competitiveness of the conference.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’re in the final few episodes of 2025, but that doesn’t stop our tour around the sport. On today’s episode, we take a look at Conference USA and the two teams that squared off for the crown last year. First, you’ll hear from Liberty head coach Dot Richardson on finally breaking through to the Super Regionals last season. She also shares her thoughts on the conference and another rugged non-conference schedule.Afterwards, we visit with Jacksonville State head coach Julie Boland. She talks about being one win away from the title and how that will motivate her team in 2026. She also shares what she learned while coaching under Hall of Famer Jana McGinnis and more.The guys then share their thoughts on who will be inducted into the 2026 NFCA Hall of Fame in Atlantic City.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We hit the final day of American Conference Media Week on In The Circle. Today’s first stop is Boca Raton, where Florida Atlantic looks for another trip to the NCAA Tournament. Head Coach Jordan Clark shares how much she’s changed since taking over the program. You’ll also hear from reigning Defensive Player of the Year Jesiana Mora and Pitcher of the Year Autumn Courtney about playing for Coach Clark and receiving their championship rings.Media Week wraps up in Memphis, where we catch up with the Tigers. Head Coach Trena Prater discusses building off last season’s strong finish and a significant anniversary she’ll celebrate in 2026. Plus, Kennedy Semien reflects on Coach Prater’s impact and her journey to Memphis.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We are full speed ahead with American Conference Media Week on In The Circle, powered by SixFour3.First, we head to familiar territory in Tampa to take a look at the USF Bulls. You'll hear from Assistant Coach Lisa Navas about working under Ken Eriksen and the program’s summer trip to Puerto Rico. We’re also joined by two-time Defensive Player of the Year, senior Kathy Garcia-Soto, who discusses playing in her homeland of Puerto Rico over the summer and winning the conference crown last season.Afterward, we travel to the Lone Star State to examine UTSA in Year 2 under Head Coach Vann Stuedeman. Coach Stuedeman and Katiya Reyes break down the Roadrunners’ outlook for 2026, including the addition of Mac Morgan to the staff. Kat also shares why she may be following in Coach Stuedeman’s footsteps very soon.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We are halfway through In The Circle American Media Week. Today, we discuss two programs looking to contend for the league crown in 2026.First, we preview the Charlotte 49ers. You'll hear from head coach Courtney Breault about what she learned in her first year at the helm. We’re also joined by 2025 American Player of the Year Jenna Lord, who discusses her journey to Charlotte and her appreciation for the sport.Next, we travel to Tulsa, where the Golden Hurricane are prepared to make another tournament run. Tulsa head coach Crissy Strimple discusses her team’s outlook in 2026 and getting three key returners back thanks to a Heisman Trophy finalist. One of those returners is Maci Cole, who joins us to share her thoughts on earning that extra year of eligibility.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s Day 2 of American Conference Media Week here on In The Circle, powered by SixFour3. Today, we first head to Denton to talk about the new-look Mean Green. We chat with head coach Cody White about his journey from Division II to North Texas. You’ll also hear from pitcher Anneca Anderson about her decision to return to UNT and play for Coach White.Next, we travel to Birmingham to examine UAB, a team poised to add more wins to its tally in 2025. Head coach Taylor Smartt reflects on her first year in charge and the many close games her team played. Then, hear from Hannah Dorsett and Abi Perkins about being roommates and their BBQ recommendation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have a busy week for you on In The Circle, powered by SixFour3, as we kick off American Conference Media Week. The guys are dedicating this week to Chuck Sullivan, who suddenly passed away last month. We begin our coverage in the heartland, discussing all things Shockers.We chat with Wichita State head coach Kristi Bredbenner about being named a D1Softball All-Quarter Century head coach, and she reflects on how her role has evolved since the start of her career. We also speak with sophomore pitcher Ryley Nihart about what she learned in 2025 and how those lessons will help her this coming season.After that, we travel to Greenville and East Carolina, where the Pirates will host the 2026 American Conference Tournament. First, we catch up with head coach Shane Winkler about ECU’s successful 2025 season and how they plan to build on that momentum. Then you’ll hear from senior outfielder Anna Sawyer about what drew her to ECU and the type of hitter she has become.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thursdays are for In The Circle, powered by SixFour3. Today, we wrap up our ACC tour with a trip to Clemson, the defending ACC Tournament champions. You’ll hear Head Coach John Rittman share how his team looks heading into 2026 and how close they came to reaching Oklahoma City. Afterwards, Eric and Victor recap the AUSL Draft and share major news regarding next week’s schedule. Here’s a hint: you’ll be hearing from them a lot.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’re through Thanksgiving weekend and ready to finish 2025 strong. On today’s episode of In The Circle, powered by SixFour3, we continue our look at the ACC with a visit to Palo Alto and Stanford. We chat with Paul A. Violich Director of Softball Jessica Allister about returning to Stanford Softball Stadium. She also discusses the new additions to her staff, playing in Stanford Stadium in 2025, and the evolving ACC landscape. Plus, the guys share their thoughts on the upcoming AUSL Allocation Draft.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s Thanksgiving Week, and we have plenty to be thankful for. On today’s episode, powered by SixFour3, we continue our ACC Tour with Virginia Tech Head Coach Pete D’Amour. The Hokies added reinforcements to keep their momentum going after another NCAA Tournament appearance. Coach D’Amour discusses how the fall has gone and his recent induction into the Greater Washington Hall of Fame. Plus, Victor shares his most overrated and underrated Thanksgiving foods.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As we’re one week away from Thanksgiving, we give you another serving of ACC softball. On today’s episode of In The Circle, powered by SixFour3, we head up to Tobacco Road. First, we travel to Durham for our chat with Duke Head Coach Marissa Young. After another Super Regional appearance in 2025, the Blue Devils have plenty of fresh faces ready to shine in 2026. Coach Young shares how that process has gone, as well as her thoughts on the landscape of the ACC.Next, we make our way to Chapel Hill for our conversation with North Carolina Head Coach Megan Smith-Lyon. The Tar Heels are fresh off their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2019 and are looking for more in 2026. Coach Smith-Lyon discusses how they’re building off last year’s success and talks some Tar Heel hoops as well.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There are only three episodes left in our #NovemberToRemember. On today's episode, powered by SixFour3, you'll hear from FSU head coach Lonni Alameda. She’ll be inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame on Wednesday, and she shares her thoughts on that honor as well as her Seminoles heading into 2026. Plus, the guys break down Florida State’s schedule for the upcoming Shriners Children’s Clearwater Invitational and share the games they’re most looking forward to watching.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The #NovemberToRemember rolls along today with a visit to the Big Ten. On this episode, powered by SixFour3, we look at the reigning Big Ten Tournament champions and one of their potential challengers.First, we head to Ann Arbor for a chat with Michigan head coach Bonnie Tholl. The Wolverines return plenty of talent from their Big Ten Tournament championship squad. She reflects on the team’s growth throughout the year and what it could mean for 2026. And of course, we can’t talk Michigan Softball without asking about Coach Hutch.Afterwards, we make our way to Happy Valley for a visit with a Penn State team that’s ready to roll with a healthy Bridget Nemeth back. Head coach Clarisa Crowell discusses handling the 2025 season with numerous injuries — and her favorite sports teams dealing with them as well.Plus, Victor gives some recommendations to Michigan (and Northwestern) fans visiting Chicago this weekend.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mondays are for In The Circle, powered by SixFour3. We wrap up our trip around the Mountain West with a visit to San Diego State. The defending tournament champions feature a young but talented team heading into 2026. Head coach Stacey Nuveman Deniz shares her thoughts on the roster, the Mountain West landscape, and her busy summer with the AUSL. Afterwards, ELo and Victor finally share their thoughts on the D1Softball All-Quarter Century Team and the Top Power 4 Pitchers.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The annual In The Circle November to Remember stays in the Mountain West for today's episode, powered by SixFour3.First, we head to Reno to catch up with the reigning regular-season champion Nevada Wolf Pack. You’ll hear from Head Coach Victoria Hayward on the changing landscape of the league and her thoughts on the MLB Playoffs — she has connections to both World Series teams, by the way.Afterward, we head east on Interstate 80 to Boise, where the Broncos are primed to make a push for the crown. Head Coach Justin Shults talks about his young but talented roster and why his team shouldn’t be underestimated in 2026.Plus, the guys share the softball connections tied to this year’s World Series.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ladies and gentlemen, we’ve officially made it to November, which means it’s time for the annual In The Circle #NovemberToRemember. We kick off this year’s edition by heading west. First, we chat with Fullerton head coach Gina Oaks-Garcia, whose alma mater is ready to make another run at the Big West crown. She discusses coaching back home and what it will take for her team to return to the NCAA Tournament. Our other guest is no stranger to the postseason: Grand Canyon’s Shanon Hays. After winning another WAC Championship, the Lopes now make the move to the Mountain West. Coach Hays shares his thoughts on their new home and some familiar faces he’ll battle in 2026.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As we enter Halloween weekend, we have plenty of treats for you to enjoy. On today’s episode of In The Circle, powered by SixFour3, our Fall Tour finishes its swing around the Sun Belt.First, you’ll hear from Coastal Carolina head coach Kelley Green as the Chants look to make it back to the NCAA Tournament. She reflects on their Sun Belt Tournament title from a year ago and a loaded 2026 schedule.Then, you’ll hear from App State head coach Whitney Jones as she begins Year 2 leading the program. After a 2025 season that had its moments, Coach Jones discusses how her team is preparing to take the next step heading into the new year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You can never have too much Sun Belt action. Today's episode delivers just that.As the In The Circle Fall Tour continues (powered by SixFour3), we head to San Marcos to visit the reigning regular season conference champs, Texas State. You'll hear from head coach Ricci Woodard as she prepares for the Bobcats' swan song season in the league before their move to the Pac-12.Plus, she discusses being named one of D1Softball’s Top 25 Non-Power 4 Head Coaches, and the guys share their thoughts on the list. Newsflash: Victor was not happy about who was left off.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The In The Circle Fall Tour heads north for the first of many stops within the Sun Belt. On today’s episode, powered by SixFour3, we travel to Harrisonburg, Virginia, to visit James Madison.The Dukes are reloading for 2026 after coming within one win of capturing the Sun Belt crown last season. Head coach Loren LaPorte joins the show to discuss how that near title run has motivated her team heading into the new year. She also reflects on the rich history of two-way stars who have suited up for JMU—an ideal segue into our discussion of the best two-way players from the past 25 years, according to D1Softball.Will any Dukes make the cut on our hosts’ respective teams?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.