Storm land in first regional rankings

INDIANOLA, Iowa - The Simpson College softball team was one of seven teams ranked in Region IX in the first edition of the NCAA Division III Regional Rankings.

Traditionally, the first rankings of the year are only released by alphabetical order, meaning the Storm could in theory be ranked from either No. 1 through No. 7. Simpson was also one of four American Rivers Conference teams to be represented in the region.

The Storm currently have a record of 24-12 and are 7-7 in the conference with a home series against Luther being the final two games in the regular season.

"We really amped up our non-conference schedule with tough competition and it's paying off," said Storm head coach Brent Matthias. "Of the seven teams ranked in our region we have the third toughest strength of schedule rating. It's a great honor for our team and well earned. Saying that, we have to finish the regular season on a high and focus on our process that has gotten us to this point."

Simpson embarked on an 18-game win streak earlier this season, the second-longest win streak in a single season in program history. The Storm lead the conference in multiple offensive categories, including hits (325), runs (244), doubles (79), triples (15) and slugging percentage (.520).

The Storm also have multiple individuals at the top of the conference, as sophomore Ashlyn Steen ranks first in hits and triples, with 53 and seven, respectively. Additionally, Alexis Ehlers leads the conference in slugging percentage (.757) and doubles (17).

The Storm will face off with Luther on May 4 at home to end the regular season.

REGION IX RANKINGS
1. Bethel (MN) (21-7)
2. Central (IA) (20-6)
3. Coe (24-6)
4. Saint Benedict (17-13)
5. Saint Mary's (MN) (24-8)
6. Simpson (24-12)
7. Wartburg (20-11)
*Rankings in alphabetical order