The Dordt Defender softball team has officially turned the page to a new season, and if early signs are any indication, the anticipation surrounding this group is well-earned. With one game already under its belt and a full weekend of competition ahead, Dordt head coach Jeff Zomer sees a program that hasn't missed a step — and may be ready to take another.

Full Interview 

Now in his 17th season at the helm, Zomer says the transition from last spring to this one has been as seamless as any he's experienced. That momentum didn't begin in February, but rather months earlier.

"I feel like the team picked up right where we left off," Zomer said. "From practice one in fall ball, there was a continuous growth, and that's carried over into the last few weeks of preparation."

That continuity stems in part from how the 2025 season ended. While the Defenders experienced their share of frustration early — including a stretch defined by one-run losses and a challenging spring break trip — the team never fractured. Instead, the adversity became a unifying force.

"We had a lot of games where we were just a run short," Zomer said. "But the team never felt like a 3–9 team. Everyone knew we had talent. That experience brought us together, and I think it's made this group extremely hungry."

Zomer describes this year's identity simply: humble and hungry — a mindset reinforced by an older, more mature roster. With another year of development under their belts, returning players have brought leadership and stability, while setting a standard for a talented freshman class beginning to find its footing.

Offensively, Dordt returns one of the most dangerous lineups in the conference. The Defenders shattered multiple program records a season ago, including single-season home runs and RBIs, and nearly all of that production is back.

"All but three of the home runs from last year's record-setting team are returning," Zomer noted. "We know this team can hit."

At the center of that lineup is Chloe Kreuz, who continues to build one of the most impressive careers in program history. Now a junior, Kreuz is no longer a surprise to opposing pitchers — and Dordt has embraced that reality by reimagining how to deploy her.

"Right now, Chloe's likely going to hit leadoff," Zomer said. "She puts the ball in play, doesn't strike out much, and she can run. That changes the dynamic."

Protecting Kreuz in the lineup will be a mix of returning contributors like Annabelle Hensley, Lauren Steenstra, Ashtyn Grissom, and Taylor Schneider, along with an exciting newcomer in Rylee Yager. A highly decorated high school athlete from Northwest Iowa, Yager is already adjusting to the college game on both sides of the ball.

In her collegiate pitching debut last weekend, Yager was tested immediately — and responded.

"The leadoff hitter doubled off her first pitch," Zomer said. "Honestly, I loved it. She settled in after that — 12 strikeouts, five hits, one walk. That's a pretty impressive first outing."

Defensively and in the circle, Dordt expects growth as the season unfolds. After a slight dip in those areas last year, Zomer believes pitching and defense will once again become hallmarks of the program — complementing an offense capable of putting pressure on any opponent.

That balance will be tested this weekend as Dordt plays in a challenging field at the ASB Dome Classic, featuring nationally ranked and perennial contenders from multiple conferences. For Zomer, the opportunity is exactly what this team needs.

"I think we match up well," he said. "There are going to be some really good challenges, and that's exciting for this group."