LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Saint Leo softball coaching staff was recognized as one of eight programs as selected by their peers as the 2026 ATEC/NFCA Regional Coaching Staff of the Year, the Association announced on Thursday. The south region coaches recognized the Saint Leo leadership of Erin Kinberger, Zack Carver, Lexi Carver, and Pat Affrunti as the South Region Coaching Staff of the Year. This marks the second straight year that this coaching staff has received this recognition.

As a team the Lions set a program record for wins (50) and the program's longest winning streak (38 games). The Green & Gold also earned the Sunshine State Conference (SSC) Championship, the first one for the Lions since 2017. Additionally, Saint Leo obtained its highest ranking in National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA), as the Lions were tabbed the number-one team in the country. In the postseason, Saint Leo collected the top-seed for the NCAA Division II South Region along with punching its ticket to the World Series for the second time in program history.

The Lions will return to action on Friday, May 29 as they compete against fourth-seeded Cal. State San Marcos in the second round of the DII Softball World Series at 12 p.m.