Yotes Softball Picked Fourth in CCC Preseason Poll

Caldwell, Idaho - The College of Idaho softball team has been picked to finish fourth in the 2027 Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) Preseason Coaches' Poll, as the Yotes prepare for another competitive season under head coach Al Mendiola.

The Yotes enter the 2027 campaign following a 38-22 overall record in 2026, including a fifth-place finish in the CCC standings. College of Idaho returns 19 letterwinners from last season's squad, bringing a combination of experience and new talent to the field.

Leading the returning group is senior outfielder Kamryn Ham, who earned First Team All-CCC honors, a Gold Glove award in the outfield, and recognition on the NAIA All-Tournament Team. Ham finished the 2026 season with a .363 batting average, recording 70 hits, 52 runs, and 16 stolen bases. 

Senior catcher Hallie Campbell also returns after earning All-CCC Honorable Mention and Naia All-Tournament Team recognition. Campbell posted a .350 batting average last season, collecting 49 hits and 29 RBIs. 

In the circle, junior right-hander Drew Williams returns after leading the Yotes with 15 wins in 2026. Williams recorded a 3.59 ERA across 42 appearances, including multiple outings during the NAIA Championship Tournament. 

College of Idaho also welcomes several newcomers expected to contribute this season. Junior pitcher Gianna Tassio joins the Yotes from San Mateo Community College, where she posted a 6-1 record and a 1.96 ERA. Fellow transfer Hannah Ames brings an impressive resume after batting .460 and earning NFCA All-American, 3C2A All-State, and First Team All-Conference honors. Freshman infielder Ali Knowles, a First Team 6A SIC All-Conference selection from Mountain View High School, adds local talent to the roster. 

Mendiola enters his 22nd season leading the program, having guided the Yotes to three conference championships and 10 NAIA Tournament appearances. 

The Yotes are scheduled to open their 2027 season with a double header on February 11 against Benedictine University Mesa in Arizona. Conference games begin on March 5 with a double header at home against number two ranked Oregon Tech.

2027 CCC Softball Preason Poll
Southern Oregon University (6) - 75
Oregon Tech (1) - 70
Eastern Oregon University (2) - 69
College of Idaho - 64
University of British Columbia - 51
Simpson University - 38
Warner Pacific University - 36
Corban University - 33
Bushnell University - 25