ITHACA, N.Y. - With a veteran core returning, a new staff, and a roster strengthened by incoming talent, the Cornell softball team enters the 2026 season with a renewed sense of purpose and belief. The Big Red is focused on translating expectations into consistent on-field performance while building a culture rooted in growth, accountability and daily development. 

"We are entering 2026 with a strong mindset and a lot of purpose," Tara Smith, the Jan Rock Zubrow '77 Head Coach of Softball mentioned. "This season, we are emphasizing closing the gap between standards and execution, turning what the team says it wants into what we actually do on the field", she noted.

A New Era of Leadership
Cornell will enter it's first full season with the Jan Rock Zubrow '77 Head Coach of Softball, Tara Smith at the helm, joined by newly acquired staff members Marisa Runyon and Georgina Corrick.

"It has been an incredible experience so far," Smith mentioned. "Although it came out of the blue and was totally unexpected, it was an honor to be given the chance to lead the program. It has been fun, challenging, emotional and rewarding, and we have only just started. I have loved every minute of it and can't wait to see where we are this spring."

Years spent serving in multiple roles within the program have shaped a vision centered on the student-athlete experience.

"The collegiate experience needs to be rewarding and enjoyable in order for athletes to succeed," Smith added. "We are trying to build that here, if we do that, the results will take care of themselves", she expressed.

Building a Culture of GRIT+
Cornell softball's identity is rooted in the program's guiding framework: GRIT+ - Grateful, Resilient, Intentional, Tough and Prepared.

"Our athletes are intrinsically motivated, committed to the process and eager to put in the work because they care about becoming the best version of themselves," Smith explained.

That philosophy shows up daily in preparation, accountability and growth.

"They are intentional with their preparation, resilient through challenges and grateful for the opportunity to compete and grow at Cornell," Smith continued with. "You see it in the extra work, the way they support each other and how they show up prepared and tough in practice and competition", she stated.

Experience in the Circle
Cornell returns a seasoned trio in the circle with Maddie Covelli, Mila Fiordalisi and Laney Frieband back to lead the pitching staff. Each brings valuable experience and continued growth in consistency, game awareness and confidence heading into the season.

The returning pitchers' familiarity with Ivy League competition and their ability to manage high-leverage situations will be central to the Big Red's defensive identity.

Strength and Leadership in the Infield
The Big Red infield will be anchored by Ella Harrod, who led the team in hits last season and is expected to continue providing leadership and smart at-bats from the middle infield.

She is joined by returning contributors Maddie Ullensvang, Emma Harshberger, Susanna Pate and Charlize Cai, all of whom played significant roles last season and return with increased confidence and experience competing in Ivy League play.

Together, the group provides stability, familiarity and leadership across the infield.

Stability Behind the Plate
Lauren Holt returns to anchor Cornell's defense behind the plate, bringing experience and continuity to the pitching staff. Her established relationships with each pitcher are expected to play a key role in game management and maintaining confidence in high-pressure situations.

In addition to her defensive impact, Holt has continued to develop offensively and will be relied upon for competitive at-bats and the ability to advance runners.

Offensive Development and Player Growth
Player development remains a cornerstone of the program's philosophy.

"My approach is individually focused," Smith said. "We meet hitters where they are, build strong fundamentals and help them understand the why behind adjustments. Confidence and trust are key, and we want hitters to feel empowered to take ownership of their growth", she added.

The program's offensive growth in recent seasons has reflected that mindset.

"Our athletes have taken ownership, been consistent in their work and invested in themselves every day," Smith mentioned.

Depth Across the Lineup
Cornell welcomes six first-year student-athletes, adding depth and competition throughout the roster. The combination of experienced returners and new talent has strengthened internal competition and provides flexibility across the lineup.

Below are the incoming Cornellians and comments from Tara Smith:

Avery Wolfe - Outfielder
A powerful presence at the plate with impressive strength. Avery comes from a top-tier Nebraska Gold team and brings experience from the highest level of travel ball, positioning her well for success in the Ivy League.

Tarisa Frans - Utility
Known for her phenomenal speed and defensive versatility, Tarisa has competed at an elite level with the Nebraska Gold organization. She's a dynamic athlete who can contribute both in the infield and outfield, providing valuable flexibility to complement our returners.

Deli Lopez - Catcher/Utility
A versatile defender with the ability to make an impact anywhere on the field. Deli plays with a joyful energy that lifts those around her and brings consistency in all areas of the game.

Samantha Esparza - Catcher
Sam brings a composed and confident presence behind the plate. Her leadership and steady demeanor make her a key piece of the battery and an asset to the team's defensive core.

Morgan Drotter - Outfielder/Utility
A product of the highly respected Bengals organization in California, Morgan is fundamentally sound and well-coached. She brings a strong foundation and high softball IQ to the team.

Sofia Hernandez - Corner
Sofia is a standout defender with a great glove and fantastic range. She also brings power at the plate, making her a true two-way threat. 

Eyes on the Future
With international coaching experience, a veteran core and a culture centered on development and belief, the Big Red enters 2026 with ambitious goals.

"All I see is the potential for success. Why can't we win an Ivy Championship? Why can't we make a run in the NCAA tournament? Why not?" Smith concluded with.

With continuity, depth and a renewed focus on execution, Cornell looks poised to take the next step forward this spring.

Ivy League Preseason Poll
The Cornell softball team was chosen to finish seventh in the 2026 Ivy League Preseason Poll. The Big Red finished the 2025 season with a 16-22 record overall, and a 6-15 seventh-place finish in the conference.

2026 Ivy League Preseason Softball Poll (First Place Votes)
1. Princeton — 126 (14)
2. Harvard — 110 (2)
3. Columbia — 85
4. Brown — 76
5. Dartmouth — 71
6. Yale — 48
7. Cornell — 44
8. Penn — 16