The softball season is already underway. Check out our five softball players to watch in the Northwest Herald area for the 2026 season.

The softball season is already underway. Check out our team-by-team preview with top returners, newcomers and info on each local team in the Northwest Herald area for the 2026 season.

Starting, relieving and showing off her power, Jacobs’ Skylee Ferrante delivered every way in Monday’s season opener against Marengo. The Golden Eagles sophomore hit her first high school homer, struck out 10 and finished off a 12-10 win.

Jacobs travels to Marengo for a nonconference softball game on Monday, March 9, 2026, at Marengo High School.

Can Prairie Ridge top last season's third-place state finish in Class 3A? Who are the teams to beat in the FVC and KRC? Here are five storylines to watch in McHenry County for the 2026 season, which begins Monday.

Crystal Lake Central junior Oli Victorine sets the bar high for herself. The Tigers ace in the circle recently announced her commitment to play softball at NCAA Division-I Illinois.

Huntley shortstop Aubrina Adamik recently announced her commitment to NCAA Division-I Akron. Adamik has helped the Red Raiders to three straight Class 4A regional championships.

Scott Busam helped lead Prairie Ridge to a historic season. The Wolves won their first Fox Valley Conference championship since 2016 and advanced to the Class 3A state semifinals for the first time. Busam is the 2025 Northwest Herald Softball Coach of the Year.

Meet the 2025 Northwest Herald All-Area Softball Team.