Dupage Policy Journal

After a successful run in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW), the Illinois Wesleyan University softball team is set to participate in the NCAA Division III Softball Tournament. The Titans, ranked 22nd, are one of 42 automatic qualifiers among the 64 teams announced on May 12.

This year marks a return to hosting duties for Illinois Wesleyan, as they welcome Bethany Lutheran College, Greenville University, and Nebraska Wesleyan University to Inspiration Field from May 15-17. This will be their first time hosting a regional since 2019. Game times will be available on iwusports.com.

The Titans boast a record of 34-7 and secured both the CCIW Regular Season Championship with an unprecedented 16-0 conference record and the CCIW Tournament Title on May 10. They rank 14th nationally in the new national power index (NPI) and hold the 22nd spot in the latest NFCA Division III Coaches Poll.

As the sole representative from CCIW in this tournament, Illinois Wesleyan has faced eight other participating teams during this season, achieving an overall record of 8-5 against them. Their scheduled game against WashU was canceled due to weather complications.

In total, forty-two conferences received automatic qualification spots while twenty-two teams were selected at-large. The winner of this regional event will move forward to compete in the super regional scheduled for May 22-23. The championship rounds are planned for May 29-June 4 at Carol Willis Park's Inspiration Field.