The University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) softball team tees off their season a week from Friday.

On Wednesday the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) named the Bulldogs’ own Lauren Dixon their Preseason Pitcher of the Year.

Last season the junior was named the 2023 NSIC Pitcher of the Year after breaking UMD’s career strikeout record with 585.

Additionally, UMD landed second in the NSIC’s 2024 Preseason Poll. Cloquet native Kiana Bender was also named a Player to Watch.

Their season opener is February 2 against Emporia State in the Mankato Dome Invite. For their full schedule, Click Here.