MOORHEAD, Minn. -- MSU Moorhead softball is set to begin the 2025 regular season as part of the Minot State Bubble Invite. The Dragons will play six games across three days, beginning with a doubleheader against the host Beavers at 5 p.m. on Friday. 

Live video and stats will be available at msumdragons.com. After battling the Beavers on Friday, MSUM will take on University of Providence and NSIC foe UMary on Saturday. The tournament will wrap on Sunday as the Dragons play a doubleheader with Black Hills State. 

The Dragons were selected to finish eighth in the NSIC preseason coaches' poll with senior Avery Steffen and sophomore Teagan Clemmons tabbed as 'players to watch'. MSUM earned 100 points in the poll that was topped by Augustana with 196 points and 14 first-place votes. Minnesota State, who came in third, received the other first-place vote. 

"I'm excited to work with these elite athletes as a new coaching staff, not only to see their hard work translate into success but also to foster a culture of growth, resilience, and teamwork," said head coach Vanessa Kellems, who begins her first season in 2025. "The upcoming season brings the promise of thrilling challenges, opportunities to push boundaries, and the chance to build meaningful connections both on and off the field. I'm eager to witness the team's dedication, passion, and talent shine as we strive to achieve our shared goals."

Steffen returns to the field in 2025 after missing most of the 2024 season with an ankle injury. The senior played in eight games before her season ended, hitting for a .269 average and pitching nine innings. Steffen was an All-NSIC First Team performer as a utility in 2023, hitting for a .394 average with four homers, 28 RBIs and 25 runs scored. The Zumbrota, Minn., native also stole 10 bases and was strong in the circle, twirling 56 innings with 45 strikeouts and a team-best 3.25 ERA. 

"Avery enters her senior season as a preseason player to watch, bringing leadership, experience, and unmatched determination to the field. Known for her versatility and consistent performance, Avery has been a cornerstone of the team throughout her career," said Kellems of Steffen. "As a senior, she's not only expected to deliver game-changing moments but also to set the tone for the team with her work ethic and competitive edge. Whether it's at the plate, in the field, or rallying her teammates, Avery is poised to make this season one to remember."

Steffen is joined by six returners, led by fellow senior (and 2024 All-NSIC Second Teamer) Annika Norman, who hit for a .313 average with 46 hits a season ago. Senior Eliya Johnson and juniors Olivia Goderis, Teagan Pranchke, Lexie Wilson and Brynna Farman round out the MSUM returners. The Dragon upperclass also includes transfer infielder Natalie Gonzalez. 

Clemmons was named MSUM's 'pitcher to watch' after making 28 appearances for the Dragons as a true freshman in 2024. The Las Vegas, Nev., native made 11 starts, pitching 90 innings for MSUM with a 3.42 ERA. Clemmons also established herself as a strikeout pitcher, tallying 61 punchouts to just 20 walks. As a freshman, Clemmons also had three saves in relief and bolstered a 1.58 WHIP. 

"Teagan, this season, is already making waves on the field. With her impressive skill set, competitive spirit, and poise beyond her years, Teagan is poised to be a standout performer," said Kellems. "Her ability to command the mound, combined with her relentless work ethic and drive for excellence, makes her a key player to watch. As she continues to refine her craft, there's no doubt she will be a crucial asset to the team this season."

Clemmons highlights a smaller sophomore class alongside utility Lacey Camden, who transferred to MSUM from Division II Felician University. The Dragons bolster a large group of freshman in 2025, featuring seven first-year players.