Simmons Eyes Return, Northwest Softball 2026 Season Preview

(Grand Island, NE) - The Northwest Vikings added yet another state championship in 2025 with a memorable title run. The Vikings won their third state Class B crown after coming back to defeat Beatrice in the bottom of the 7th, 4-3. Northwest went 30-2 with the only two defeats coming back-to-back early in the season vs Skutt & St Cecilia. 

The Vikings now gear up for 2026, eyeing another state tournament appearance. One of the key pieces back for Northwest will be last year's state championship starting pitcher Gracyln Simmons, who is coming off an ACL/knee injury she suffered during the wrestling season. Simmons has been able to rehab and get back to nearly 100% in six months. Simmons' last season went 16-1 in the circle with 193 strikeouts. 

The Vikings will have plenty of firepower back for 2026, including the Dinkleman sisters. Abby (SO) led the team last year in home runs (13) and batting average (.608). The youngster had 59 hits and 51 RBIs.  Becca (SR) had a .449 batting average with 40 hits and 44 RBIs. Becca also had 8 home runs during the 2025 campaign. 

The Vikings will also return all three outfielders from last year's squad: Lauren Jones (JR), Sadie Cemper (JR), and Alexis Glaze (SR). 

Northwest will start the season on August 22nd, hosting Omaha Skutt Catholic and Beatrice at the Vets Complex staring at 10:00 am. 

Northwest Schedule - HERE