The University of Central Florida softball team saw five of its athletes earn national recognition on May 14, as announced by the organization. Junior second baseman Sierra Humphreys, redshirt sophomore right-hander Isabella Vega, sophomore catcher Beth Damon, sophomore utility Kendall Yarnell, and sophomore outfielder Izzy Mertes were all named to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association’s (NFCA) 2026 All-Region squad.
This achievement marks the highest number of UCF players selected for All-Region honors in a single season during the program’s Big 12 era and is the most since six Knights received similar honors in 2015. The selections highlight both individual performances and overall team progress during the season.
Humphreys was named to the First Team after setting new career highs in several categories including batting average (.390), home runs (13), and runs batted in (56). She played a key role in important victories throughout the season, including delivering a decisive RBI double against Oklahoma State. Vega earned Second Team recognition for her pitching achievements, which included a perfect game against Houston and leading her team with a strong earned run average and multiple winning decisions.
Damon also made the Second Team after recording career bests at bat and contributing significantly against ranked opponents. Yarnell joined them on the Second Team following an impactful first year as a regular starter that featured several grand slams and key home runs during critical series wins. Mertes rounded out UCF’s honorees with Third Team selection; she matched her previous doubles total while posting personal bests across major offensive statistics.
UCF Athletics said it aims to positively transform student lives through academic and athletic programs while enhancing university visibility nationally. The department describes itself as “Orlando’s Hometown Team” representing both UCF and its community.
