Ricky Bumgardner Jr. | 1.10.2026
Eastern Florida State College Softball 2026 Season Preview: Titans Ready to Rise
After a monster 2025 season, the Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) softball team returns as one of the most talented and compelling programs in NJCAA Division I softball. From routinely competing in the national polls to setting program records and showcasing star athletes, the Titans have momentum — and they’re poised to seize even more in 2026.
A 2025 Season for the Record Books
The 2025 EFSC softball team finished with a remarkable 39-22 overall record — including the most wins in program history — and qualified for the FCSAA Division I/NJCAA South Atlantic Region Tournament for the second consecutive season. Their postseason run included a dramatic 8-1 victory over No. 2 seed Northwest Florida State College in the opening game before falling 6-5 in nine innings to Chipola College in the semifinals.
A midseason highlight came as the Titans climbed as high as No. 18 in the NJCAA Division I National Poll, maintaining a top-25 position for multiple weeks — a testament to their consistent excellence and strength of schedule.
Offensive Firepower and Pitching Prowess
One of the most electrifying storylines from last year was freshman phenom Avery Velazquez, a dual-threat powerhouse who dominated both sides of the game. Velazquez led the state of Florida in RBIs (65) while posting a formidable .414 batting average with 7 home runs and 22 doubles. On the mound, she emerged as a frontline starter with a 23-10 record, 1.14 ERA, and over 200 innings pitched, striking out batters consistently throughout the season.
EFSC’s offensive approach was balanced and versatile, with Ashley Grieser (.314 average), Ashley Corazzini (.310 with 15 doubles), and Kayla Fanning’s athleticism in the outfield providing depth and run production throughout the lineup.
Defensive Growth and Team Identity
Defense and pitching were central to the Titans’ identity. Beyond Velazquez’s standout numbers, the entire pitching staff blended experience and fresh arms to keep EFSC competitive in tight games. The team ERA held opponents in check during key conference matchups, and Titan defenders complemented the arms with timely plays that extended innings and kept pressure on opposing offenses.
Coaching Leadership
Head Coach Andrew Zeger has shaped the Titans into a perennial contender, guiding the program through a stretch of postseason appearances and national poll recognition. Zeger’s emphasis on fundamentals, aggressive offense, and pitching depth has turned EFSC into a destination program in the Citrus Conference and beyond. His players routinely talk about accountability, confidence, and a team-first mindset as hallmarks of the Titans’ culture.
What to Expect in 2026
With the core of last year’s standout contributors returning — including Velazquez, Grieser, Corazzini, and Fanning — the Titans are set to make another deep run in 2026. Here’s what to watch:
🔹 Continued Offensive Efficiency: With last year’s offensive leaders returning, expect sustained production throughout the lineup, with plenty of extra-base hits and run-producing opportunities.
🔹 Pitching Leadership: Velazquez anchors a staff built to compete in every inning and manage late-game pressure. Their ERA and strikeout totals from 2025 forecast another top-tier season.
🔹 Strength in Conference: The Citrus Conference remains a gauntlet, but EFSC’s resilience and experience against ranked teams will be a major asset.
🔹 Postseason Aspirations: After a strong showing last year, the Titans are hungry to return to regionals and beyond. With strong depth and leadership, 2026 could be the year they push for NJCAA World Series contention.
Fans should keep an eye on EFSC all season — this is a group capable of winning big games, competing nationally, and representing Florida softball with pride.
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