Austin Peay State University's softball team breaks from Atlantic Sun Conference play to take on rival UT Martin in the final midweek matchup of 2026. Coming off a series win against Lipscomb, the Govs (26-17) will face the Skyhawks (25-17) at the Henderson County Sports Complex. Senior Sammie Shelander led with a .467 batting average over the weekend, while Katie Raper hit two home runs, bringing her total to tie for fourth in the program's single-season history. Both teams have proven competitive, with the Govs winning seven of the last nine meetings since 2018.

By the Numbers
  • Austin Peay has a .411 average from Shelander, ranking in the top five of the ASUN.
  • UT Martin leads the Ohio Valley Conference with 77 stolen bases and ranks in the Top 20 nationally.
State of Play
  • The Govs boast five shutouts and a .232 opposing batting average, led by Alanah Jones鈥� 2.95 ERA.
  • UT Martin has a 13-4 record in Ohio Valley Conference play and has consistently performed defensively.
What's Next

Following the matchup with UT Martin, Austin Peay will face North Alabama on April 18-19 at Hilda B. Anderson Softball Stadium, aiming to strengthen their overall record and ASUN standing.

Bottom Line

This final midweek rivalry game presents a critical opportunity for the Govs to build momentum as they prepare for upcoming conference games, especially with key players like Shelander and Raper in top form.