Tatum Helsom, a pitcher from Georgia Gwinnett College, has been named the 2026 Continental Athletic Conference Softball Freshman of the Year, highlighting the all-conference honors as the postseason tournament kicks off on campus. Coach Kat Ihlenburg has been awarded Coach of the Year, while seven Grizzlies received all-league distinctions. Helsom鈥檚 impressive debut season includes 10 wins and 83 strikeouts, while standout players like Kailyn Berry and Savannah Jenkins also achieved notable stats. The Grizzlies enter the CAC Softball Championship as the top seed with a 26-22 record.

By the Numbers
  • Tatum Helsom recorded 10 wins and 83 strikeouts in her freshman season.
  • Kailyn Berry stands at 13-5 with a 2.20 ERA and five shutouts.
  • Savannah Jenkins leads the team with 44 RBIs and four home runs, batting .376.
  • Casey Beaver tops the team with a .415 batting average and 36 steals.
Yes, But

While the Grizzlies excelled this season, challenges remain as they seek to translate individual success into championship victories amidst a competitive landscape.

State of Play
  • The CAC Softball Championship starts Wednesday at the Grizzly Softball Complex.
  • The Grizzlies are ranked among the top contenders in the NAIA polls.
  • Kat Ihlenburg achieved her 500th coaching victory this season.
What's Next

The Grizzlies will aim to leverage their individual accolades in the upcoming championship, with the potential for national recognition should they advance far in the tournament.

Bottom Line

Georgia Gwinnett College's softball team, bolstered by standout performances from Helsom and the leadership of Ihlenburg, looks poised for success as they pursue a championship title.