NCAA programs utilize AU Pro Softball scoring system in fall ball

Savanna Collins

Dec 11, 2023

Throughout the fall, college softball programs spend their time preparing for the upcoming spring season and this year, they took inspiration from AU Pro Softball.

Eight programs across the NCAA utilized aspects of the Softball scoring system.

Arkansas Softball named their competition “Razorbacks Unlimited” and junior infielder Bri Ellis was crowned champion.

AU Pro Softball infielder Danielle Gibson Whorton is on the coaching staff at Arkansas, her alma mater. Gibson Whorton is the program’s first two-time NFCA All-American and has competed with AU for two seasons since her four-year playing career for the Razorbacks from 2019-22.

Gibson said how incorporating an AU-inspired competition kept things fresh for the team.

“In the fall, off-season softball can sometimes feel really repetitive and monotonous,” Gibson said. “Anytime us coaches can bring something new and exciting to the practice plan, we know it’ll bring a fun-competitive environment for our girls. That is exactly what the AU scoring system looks like for us. The best part about it is being able to adjust the scoring to emphasize what we’re trying to work on this fall.”

The same way the AU format has challenged Gibson as a pro, she’s seeing it push the players at Arkansas.

“Seeing them not only compete, but watching the captains manage and play themselves is something I’ve enjoyed watching. Our girls are actively learning the importance of relationships, game IQ, making quick decisions to win innings, and so much more,” Gibson added. “I feel like I am providing insight and advice to them that’s more than mechanics… it’s developing our future minds of the game. I take pride in knowing that scoring system so well & feel really proud of the league I play for as we’re progressing the development of softball players. I’m excited to see the future of our league and what type of expansion is in store.”

Babson Softball shared how their champion Sophia Pak racked up points in their AU-style intrasquad games.

Howard University Softball posted their Leaderboard Top 10. Sophomore pitcher Amelia Weber was their champion.

Rowan University had teams led by players within the program just like the captains at AU Pro Softball. They used the AU scoring system to create two teams who scrimmaged during their fall season.

Savanna Collins is the Digital Media Reporter at Athletes Unlimited. You can follow her on Twitter @savannaecollins.