Dillard makes program history with first-ever All-Louisiana selections in landmark softball honors
NEW ORLEANS– A historic milestone was reached for Dillard University as the Lady Bleu Devils earned their first-ever recognition in the annual All-Louisiana softball honors, a statewide award voted on by sports information directors (SIDs) and media members across Louisiana following nominations submitted by institutional SIDs.
Leading the breakthrough was third baseman Jessica Battiste, who became the program's first All-Louisiana selection in school history. Battiste also delivered one of the most dominant statistical seasons in the state, finishing with a .465 batting average—the highest among all 2026 All-Louisiana honorees. Her performance secured a Second Team selection and cemented her place as one of the standout hitters in Louisiana collegiate softball.
Overall, 14 players were named to the All-Louisiana Second Team, with Southland tournament champion McNeese State Cowgirls leading all programs with three selections, including shortstop Kassidy Chance, outfielder Nyjah Fontenot, and designated player Maddie Taylor.
Dillard's representation on the Second Team marked a major step forward for the program, with Battiste standing as the lone selection from the university but carrying historic significance as the program's first honoree at any level of the All-Louisiana awards.
The Second Team list featured a wide cross-section of programs across the state. From University of Louisiana at Lafayette Ragin' Cajuns, selections included Hart and catcher Kennedy Marceaux. Louisiana Tech Bulldogs were represented by outfielder Elena Heng and utility player Gracie Flores, while pitching honors included Lainee Bailey (LSUA), Mattison Buster (Northwestern State), Clélia Costes (Bossier Parish Community College), and Molly Yoo (Nicholls State University).
Additional Second Team selections included Southeastern Louisiana's Ka'Lyn Watson in the outfield and Southern University's Abigail Mitchell at first base.
Honorable Mention recognition also spanned the state, including pitcher Mary-Elizabeth Landry of Dillard alongside Skylar Waggoner (ULM), Morgan Brown (ULM), Sierra Daniel (LSU), Claire Sisco (Nicholls), Maria Detillier (Southeastern Louisiana), Jada Munoz (McNeese), Meagan Brown (ULM), Rylee Cloud (McNeese), Madison Moak (Nicholls), Payton Prince (LSU-Eunice), Mylie Elsensohn (LSU-Eunice), and Sophia Romero (LSU-Alexandria).
The honors reflect a statewide evaluation process driven by SID nominations and final voting by SIDs and media members, making the recognition both competitive and representative of Louisiana's broader collegiate softball landscape.
For Dillard, however, the significance is singular: Battiste's selection marks a program first, establishing a new benchmark for the Lady Bleu Devils and signaling a breakthrough moment in the program's competitive trajectory.
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