Trojans Hit Midseason Stride with Strong Conference Push
April 1, 2026
As the Colby Community College softball team reaches the midpoint of its 2026 campaign, the Trojans have positioned themselves as one of the more competitive squads in the Jayhawk Conference, combining offensive firepower with timely pitching to build momentum heading into the stretch run.
Colby currently sits at 18-14 overall and an impressive 11-3 mark in conference play, placing them currently in second of the KJCCC standings as April begins. The Trojans have been especially strong at home, compiling a 12-6 record at Carl Adams Softball Field, where they’ve consistently delivered clutch performances in front of their home crowd.
That success has been fueled by a lineup that has proven both deep and dangerous. Sophomore Briley Christensen has been the centerpiece of the offense, leading the team with 45 hits and 43 RBIs while also showing power with 13 home runs through 32 games. Close behind is Brooke Zinken, who has added 40 hits and 26 RBIs, while contributing speed and versatility at the top of the lineup.
The Trojans’ ability to produce runs from multiple spots in the order has been a defining trait all season. Dayana Miller has added 24 hits and 17 RBIs, while Ashlynn Pavlov has been a steady presence behind the plate with 23 hits and 17 RBIs of her own. Contributions from players like Kylan Sorenson and Brooklynn Ekker have further reinforced a lineup capable of putting pressure on opposing pitching staffs from top to bottom.
That offensive depth has been on full display in recent weeks. During a mid-March road trip to Texas, the Trojans showed flashes of their scoring ability, including a 12-run outburst in a win over Howard College. While the trip ended with a 1-3 record, it highlighted the team’s resilience and ability to generate offense even in tough environments.
Back at home, Colby responded in a big way with a conference sweep of Butler, highlighted by a dramatic walk-off victory in Game 2. The Trojans followed that performance with a strong showing against Seward County, using both late-game hitting and dominant pitching to secure another key conference series.
Pitching has quietly become a strength as the season has progressed. Cheyenne Cramer has emerged as a reliable ace, delivering multiple complete-game efforts, including a one-hit shutout against Seward County. The Trojans have also leaned on Alison Nikolaus and Katelyn Zukewich in key moments, forming a rotation that has shown the ability to both close games and limit damage when needed.
Even in split results against Cloud County and Barton, Colby demonstrated its balance—combining double-digit hit performances in wins with the ability to regroup after tough losses. Across those contests, the Trojans scored 23 runs in just two victories, underscoring their offensive ceiling.
At this point in the season, Colby’s identity is clear: a team built on offensive depth, timely hitting, and improving consistency in the circle. With a strong conference record already in place and several key matchups still ahead—including upcoming games against Garden City on April 3 at home, and Dodge City—the Trojans are well-positioned to make a push toward postseason play.
If the first half of the season is any indication, Colby has both the talent and momentum to remain a factor in the KJCCC race down the stretch.