11/11/26 | Softball
EUGENE, Ore. – The future of Oregon softball is bright.
On the heels of the Ducks' 2026 class that was ranked 10th nationally, coach Melyssa Lombardi has landed the No. 3 class in the nation for 2027 according to D1 Softball, and the No. 5-ranked class by Softball America/Rivals.
It is the third top-five recruiting class in program history and the highest yet under Lombardi. It is also the fourth time in the last five years that Oregon signed a top-20 recruiting class.
The 2027 class of six encompasses a five-star athlete, four national top-50 players, the top-ranked individuals from the states of Oregon, New Jersey, Wisconsin and Iowa as well as the No. 3 overall player from California, a national-team pitcher from Canada and the daughter of a Major League All-Star.
"We couldn't be more excited about our 2027 signing class," said Lombardi. "This is an incredibly talented group of young women who bring a great combination of power, speed, athleticism and competitiveness to our program. What makes this class special goes beyond their abilities on the field. It's their confidence, passion for the game and the way they carry themselves and connect with those around them."
Softball America/Rivals gave infielder Maya Matthies a 99 rating (out of 100). The Chula Vista, Calif., native is that state's No. 3 player, the nation's top corner infielder and the No. 7 player overall.
Reese Grudzielanek is slotted 23rd nationally by Softball America/Rivals with a 97 rating. She is the top player from the state of Wisconsin and the No. 3 middle infielder nationally.
The Ducks also landed the national No. 3 outfielder in Ella Reynolds. She received a 96 rating from Softball America/Rivals as the 38th overall player nationally and the top player in New Jersey. Reynolds has strong family connections to Eugene. Her father, Harold Reynolds, was born in Eugene and went on to become a two-time Major League All-Star second baseman with the Seattle Mariners. Her uncle, Don Reynolds, was an all-conference baseball player for the Ducks from 1972-75, and later played for the San Diego Padres.
The fourth top-50 player in the class of 2027 is catcher Avery Scieszinski. The No. 43 player overall received a 96 rating from Softball America/Rivals and is the top player from the state of Iowa.
The Ducks stayed home to sign the top player in the state of Oregon in Portland's Olivia Pompetti. She is the No. 71 player nationally and ninth at corner infield. Softball America/Rivals graded her at 94.
The sixth signee is pitcher Deschanel Donovan from Langley, B.C. The most-experienced international player in the class will represent Canada at the 2026 WBSC U18 Women's Pan American Championship, taking place later in November.
"Each of these six athletes brings something unique to Oregon, and together, they have the opportunity to make a tremendous impact on our program," said Lombardi. "We're incredibly proud of the relationships we've built with these young women and their families throughout the recruiting process. This group has big goals, and we believe they have everything it takes to help push Oregon softball to new heights. We can't wait to see what the future holds for this class in Eugene."
Oregon's prior top-five classes were the No. 1 overall class of 2018 and the No. 5 class in 2016.
Deschanel Donovan, 5-9, RHP (B-R/T-R), Langley, B.C. (Walnut Grove Secondary)
Canadian Junior National Team member with extensive international experience … Represented Canada at the 2025 U18 World Cup in Oklahoma City, Okla., and will throw for Canada at the WBSC U18 Women's Pan American Championship, taking place November 21–28, 2026, in San Salvador, El Salvador … Received an 88 rating from Softball America/Rivals … Ranked as the No. 103 player in the class of 2027 by Extra Inning Softball … Played club ball with the U14 and U16 Bandits Breer squads … Moved to the AZ Storm National at the 18U level … Led her team to a pair of top-five finishes in 2026 summer tournaments including a third-place showing at Top Club Invitational and a fifth-place finish at the PGF June Premier … Named an all-West Region first team pitcher in 2024 after striking out 113 with a 1.55 earned run average in 76.2 innings pitched … Was the NWFL Player of the Month in July of that year.
Personal
Born in Langley, B.C. … Parents are Denise and Mike Donovan … Father played hockey at Mount Allison University in Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada.
Deschanel Donovan on Oregon
"I became interested in Oregon when I was 13. It was one of the first camps I ever went to and the first time I saw Jane Sanders Stadium, I thought it was the coolest thing ever. Seeing the stadium, the facilities and everything the campus had to offer really stuck with me. I went to other camps after that, but none of them ever gave me the same feeling I had at Oregon. That's when I knew this was where I wanted to be. Coach Lombardi and her coaching staff really impressed me. The amount of coaching and playing experience they have between them is amazing and I know I can learn so much from them."
Coach Lombardi on Deschanel Donovan
"Deschanel brings a competitive presence to the circle that we are excited to add to our pitching staff. She carries herself with confidence and composure, and her ability to attack hitters and compete in big moments makes her a valuable addition to our program. Her competitive edge and presence in the circle are qualities that set her apart, and we look forward to seeing her take the field in a Duck uniform."
Reese Grudzielanek, 5-9, INF (B-R/T-R), Oak Creek, Wis. (Wisconsin Lutheran High School)
A four-star recruit with a 97 rating from Softball America/Rivals … Is that publication's 23rd-ranked player nationally and the top player from the state of Wisconsin … Also Softball America's No. 3 middle infielder nationally … Ranked 39th in the class of 2027 by Perfect Game … Two-time all-state second team selection her sophomore and junior seasons (2025-26) at Wisconsin Lutheran High School … Led Wisconsin Lutheran to three consecutive conference and regional titles (2024-26) … Was the conference player of the year as a junior in 2026 … A three-time all-conference honoree and a two-time all-district first team pick … Long-time member of club team Iowa Premier National … Also played basketball at Wisconsin Lutheran and twice won all-conference honors … National Honor Society and honor roll … three-time academic all-state honoree.
Personal
Born in Mequon, Wis. … Full name is Maresa Grudzielanek and goes by Reese … Parents are Nikki and Tom Grudzielanek … Ten members of her extended family played sports collegiately, including her father Tom, who played basketball at Carthage College, and her sister Riley Grudzielanek, who played softball at Northwestern her first three years of college and will be a senior at Wisconsin in the spring of 2027.
Reese Grudzielanek on Oregon
"Right from my first camp, I felt a connection with the coaching staff along with the players that made everything feel right; the connection with the coaches, the family feel all around campus, the student life, the academic programs and strong school spirit along with the beautiful campus and gorgeous scenery."
Coach Lombardi on Reese Grudzielanek
"Reese is an exciting addition to our program because of the versatility and athleticism she brings to the field. She has great speed, can impact the game in multiple ways and possesses all the tools we look for in a player. Beyond her physical abilities, Reese brings a contagious energy and a team-first mentality that make those around her better. Her competitiveness, athleticism and ability to contribute in so many ways will be a great addition to our Oregon Softball program."
Maya Matthies, 5-8, INF (B-R/T-R), Chula Vista, Calif. (Mater Dei Catholic High School)
Five-star player and the No. 7 prospect nationally according to Softball America/Rivals, who graded her at 99 out of 100 … Softball America also lists her as the nation's top corner infielder and the No. 3 player in California … Rated the No. 16 player nationally by Perfect Game … Two-time all-state selection … Led Mater Dei Catholic to the San Diego CIF Open Division and State Regional Division 1 championships in both 2025 and 2026 … Two-time all-San Diego CIF honoree … Three-year member of the Metro Mesa League all-conference team … Team captain … Led OC Batbusters Stith to the 2026 Alliance National Championship … Was named the MVP of the 2025 Alliance Super Cup after leading OC Batbusters to the tournament title … Team also won the U18 IDT Boulder Tournament in both 2025 and 2026 … Played internationally on the 2026 USA Southern California Tokyo Exchange Team … USA Softball HPP top performer in 2023, 2024 and 2025 … Also played flag football for Mater Dei and was an all-league performer in 2025-26 … Team won the 2024 flag football San Diego CIF Division 3 championship … National Honor Society … Three Bishop academic excellence awards.
Personal
Born in San Diego, Calif. … Parents are Carina and Tyler Matthies.
Maya Matthies on Oregon
"Oregon Softball has an amazing balance between enjoying the game and pushing each other for greatness. I am a very competitive person and want to work hard and win but also want to enjoy playing softball. I felt that at Oregon, I would be playing with similar people, and my mentality was aligned with the coaching staff and overall purpose and goals of the softball program. I was also impressed by the school spirit and the way athletics are celebrated in the campus community. Oregon feels like a place where I can pursue my degree seriously while competing at an elite level."
Coach Lombardi on Maya Matthies
"Maya is someone who immediately stood out to our staff with her ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball. She brings a strong presence at third base and a powerful bat that we are excited to add to our lineup. Beyond her talent, Maya has an infectious personality, a natural ability to connect with those around her and a tremendous work ethic. Her leadership qualities and competitive drive are exactly what we value in our program and we can't wait to see the impact she makes here at Oregon."
Olivia Pompetti, 5-8, INF (B-R/T-R), Portland, Ore. (Central Catholic High School)
Four-star infielder and the top player from the state of Oregon in the 2027 class (Softball America/Rivals) … Ranked 71st nationally with a 94 grade from Softball America … Is the ninth-best corner infielder in the class … Two-time all-state player … Two-time all-conference first team … The Mt. Hood Conference Player of the Year led Central Catholic to the 2024 league title … In club ball between NW Bullets and Lady Dukes Lamar, won titles at the IDT and June Premier tournaments … Co-champions of the Atlanta Legacy tournament … CO Sparkler – T.V. bracket runners-up … Placed in the Top Gun final three … National Honor Society.
Personal
Born in Portland, Ore. … Parents are Alisa and Dana Pompetti … Mother played softball at Linfield College.
Olivia Pompetti on Oregon
"The Pacific Northwest is such a special place, and having the opportunity to represent my home state means everything to me. I have attended more camps and more games at The Jane than I can count. I fell in love with the program's culture, the players, and the coaching staff. The competitive softball program and team culture have always made the University of Oregon feel like home to me. The energy of Oregon Athletics is electric, and being local and having the opportunity to represent my home state on the field is beyond humbling and exciting."
Coach Lombardi on Olivia Pompetti
"There is something special about keeping homegrown talent right here in Oregon, and we couldn't be happier to welcome Olivia to our program. Olivia brings a strong presence at the corners and a powerful bat that will make an impact in our lineup. We love the way she competes at the plate with her confidence and aggressive mindset. What stands out most about Olivia is her genuine ability to connect with people and bring those around her together. She is someone who makes her teammates better and we are excited to see her represent her home state in a Duck uniform."
Ella Reynolds, 5-9, OF (B-R/T-R), Montclair, N.J. (Montclair High School)
Outfielder with a four-star rating and a 96 grade from Softball America/Rivals is the top player from the state of New Jersey … Ranked No. 38 overall and the No. 3 outfielder nationally by Softball America … Perfect Game's No. 36 player nationally … Helped Montclair High School reach the NJS1G4 quarterfinals in 2025 and the first round in 2026 … Earned first team all-conference honors as a sophomore (2025) and honorable mention as a junior despite missing half the 2026 season due to injury … Played club ball with New Jersey Intensity and Lady Dukes … Team captain for both her high school and club teams … A USA Softball Top Performer.
Personal
Born in New York City … Parents are Kelley Browne-Reynolds and Harold Reynolds … Father Harold was born in Eugene and went on to become a two-time Major League All-Star and Gold Glove second baseman with the Seattle Mariners; he currently works for MLB Network … Uncle Don Reynolds was an all-conference baseball player for the Ducks from 1972-75, and later played for the San Diego Padres … Grandfather Dennis Browne played basketball at Creighton … Has six additional relatives who played collegiate sports, including a cousin, Daryle Hawkins, who played football at Oregon (2009-13).
Ella Reynolds on Oregon
"Above everything else, the culture around and within Oregon Softball was why I chose to attend the University of Oregon. The people within the program are so special. Everyone wants to succeed and they are constantly working to uplift others and I think that is so special. I can feel the love from everyone and they truly are a family."
Coach Lombardi on Ella Reynolds
"Ella brings an exciting combination of power and athleticism to our program. Her ability to drive the ball with authority makes her a dangerous presence in the lineup, and her overall athleticism allows her to impact the game in multiple ways. She is a well-rounded athlete with an impressive skill set, and we believe her combination of physical tools and competitive drive will make her a great addition to Oregon Softball. We are excited to see the impact she will make in a Duck uniform."
Avery Scieszinski, 5-10, C (B-R/T-R), Ankeny, Iowa (Ankeny Centennial High School)
A four-star catcher with a 96 grade according to Softball America … Is the No. 43 player overall nationally and the No. 7 catcher … Also the No. 1 prospect from the state of Iowa … Second-straight top overall player from Iowa to sign with Oregon (Analise DeWitt) … Ranked 29th nationally by Line Drive Media and 33rd by Perfect Game … With Iowa Premier Gold, had top-three finishes at the 2025 AFCS Tier II tournament, the 2025 Triple Crown Nationals and the 2025 Triple Crown 4th of July Power Pool … Invited to play in the 16U Colorado 4th of July Future All Star Game … Principal's Academic Excellence Award … Spirit of the Jaguar Award.
Personal
Born in Des Moines, Iowa … Parents are RaeAnn and Joe Scieszinski … Sister Aubrey Scieszinski plays softball at Grand View University.
Avery Scieszinski on Oregon
"I knew from the time I went to camp at Oregon that I had to be a Duck and that Oregon was my dream school. I fell in love with the coaching staff, the facilities and the team culture. I want to be a part of an Oregon team that plays for each other and has a championship mindset. The championship mindset spreads across all sports and is something I want to be a part of. I feel like I will have all the tools I need to not only be successful on the field but also in the classroom."
Coach Lombardi on Avery Scieszinski
"Avery brings a powerful presence to our program, both behind the plate and in the batter's box. Her ability to command the game as a catcher, combined with her arm strength and defensive skills, makes her a valuable asset. Offensively, she brings the type of power that can change a game with one swing. Avery is also a great leader and a true team player. We love the competitive edge she plays with and look forward to watching her represent Oregon Softball."
- www.GoDucks.com -
On the heels of the Ducks' 2026 class that was ranked 10th nationally, coach Melyssa Lombardi has landed the No. 3 class in the nation for 2027 according to D1 Softball, and the No. 5-ranked class by Softball America/Rivals.
It is the third top-five recruiting class in program history and the highest yet under Lombardi. It is also the fourth time in the last five years that Oregon signed a top-20 recruiting class.
The 2027 class of six encompasses a five-star athlete, four national top-50 players, the top-ranked individuals from the states of Oregon, New Jersey, Wisconsin and Iowa as well as the No. 3 overall player from California, a national-team pitcher from Canada and the daughter of a Major League All-Star.
"We couldn't be more excited about our 2027 signing class," said Lombardi. "This is an incredibly talented group of young women who bring a great combination of power, speed, athleticism and competitiveness to our program. What makes this class special goes beyond their abilities on the field. It's their confidence, passion for the game and the way they carry themselves and connect with those around them."
Softball America/Rivals gave infielder Maya Matthies a 99 rating (out of 100). The Chula Vista, Calif., native is that state's No. 3 player, the nation's top corner infielder and the No. 7 player overall.
Reese Grudzielanek is slotted 23rd nationally by Softball America/Rivals with a 97 rating. She is the top player from the state of Wisconsin and the No. 3 middle infielder nationally.
The Ducks also landed the national No. 3 outfielder in Ella Reynolds. She received a 96 rating from Softball America/Rivals as the 38th overall player nationally and the top player in New Jersey. Reynolds has strong family connections to Eugene. Her father, Harold Reynolds, was born in Eugene and went on to become a two-time Major League All-Star second baseman with the Seattle Mariners. Her uncle, Don Reynolds, was an all-conference baseball player for the Ducks from 1972-75, and later played for the San Diego Padres.
The fourth top-50 player in the class of 2027 is catcher Avery Scieszinski. The No. 43 player overall received a 96 rating from Softball America/Rivals and is the top player from the state of Iowa.
The Ducks stayed home to sign the top player in the state of Oregon in Portland's Olivia Pompetti. She is the No. 71 player nationally and ninth at corner infield. Softball America/Rivals graded her at 94.
The sixth signee is pitcher Deschanel Donovan from Langley, B.C. The most-experienced international player in the class will represent Canada at the 2026 WBSC U18 Women's Pan American Championship, taking place later in November.
"Each of these six athletes brings something unique to Oregon, and together, they have the opportunity to make a tremendous impact on our program," said Lombardi. "We're incredibly proud of the relationships we've built with these young women and their families throughout the recruiting process. This group has big goals, and we believe they have everything it takes to help push Oregon softball to new heights. We can't wait to see what the future holds for this class in Eugene."
Oregon's prior top-five classes were the No. 1 overall class of 2018 and the No. 5 class in 2016.
Deschanel Donovan, 5-9, RHP (B-R/T-R), Langley, B.C. (Walnut Grove Secondary)
Canadian Junior National Team member with extensive international experience … Represented Canada at the 2025 U18 World Cup in Oklahoma City, Okla., and will throw for Canada at the WBSC U18 Women's Pan American Championship, taking place November 21–28, 2026, in San Salvador, El Salvador … Received an 88 rating from Softball America/Rivals … Ranked as the No. 103 player in the class of 2027 by Extra Inning Softball … Played club ball with the U14 and U16 Bandits Breer squads … Moved to the AZ Storm National at the 18U level … Led her team to a pair of top-five finishes in 2026 summer tournaments including a third-place showing at Top Club Invitational and a fifth-place finish at the PGF June Premier … Named an all-West Region first team pitcher in 2024 after striking out 113 with a 1.55 earned run average in 76.2 innings pitched … Was the NWFL Player of the Month in July of that year.
Personal
Born in Langley, B.C. … Parents are Denise and Mike Donovan … Father played hockey at Mount Allison University in Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada.
Deschanel Donovan on Oregon
"I became interested in Oregon when I was 13. It was one of the first camps I ever went to and the first time I saw Jane Sanders Stadium, I thought it was the coolest thing ever. Seeing the stadium, the facilities and everything the campus had to offer really stuck with me. I went to other camps after that, but none of them ever gave me the same feeling I had at Oregon. That's when I knew this was where I wanted to be. Coach Lombardi and her coaching staff really impressed me. The amount of coaching and playing experience they have between them is amazing and I know I can learn so much from them."
Coach Lombardi on Deschanel Donovan
"Deschanel brings a competitive presence to the circle that we are excited to add to our pitching staff. She carries herself with confidence and composure, and her ability to attack hitters and compete in big moments makes her a valuable addition to our program. Her competitive edge and presence in the circle are qualities that set her apart, and we look forward to seeing her take the field in a Duck uniform."
Reese Grudzielanek, 5-9, INF (B-R/T-R), Oak Creek, Wis. (Wisconsin Lutheran High School)
A four-star recruit with a 97 rating from Softball America/Rivals … Is that publication's 23rd-ranked player nationally and the top player from the state of Wisconsin … Also Softball America's No. 3 middle infielder nationally … Ranked 39th in the class of 2027 by Perfect Game … Two-time all-state second team selection her sophomore and junior seasons (2025-26) at Wisconsin Lutheran High School … Led Wisconsin Lutheran to three consecutive conference and regional titles (2024-26) … Was the conference player of the year as a junior in 2026 … A three-time all-conference honoree and a two-time all-district first team pick … Long-time member of club team Iowa Premier National … Also played basketball at Wisconsin Lutheran and twice won all-conference honors … National Honor Society and honor roll … three-time academic all-state honoree.
Personal
Born in Mequon, Wis. … Full name is Maresa Grudzielanek and goes by Reese … Parents are Nikki and Tom Grudzielanek … Ten members of her extended family played sports collegiately, including her father Tom, who played basketball at Carthage College, and her sister Riley Grudzielanek, who played softball at Northwestern her first three years of college and will be a senior at Wisconsin in the spring of 2027.
Reese Grudzielanek on Oregon
"Right from my first camp, I felt a connection with the coaching staff along with the players that made everything feel right; the connection with the coaches, the family feel all around campus, the student life, the academic programs and strong school spirit along with the beautiful campus and gorgeous scenery."
Coach Lombardi on Reese Grudzielanek
"Reese is an exciting addition to our program because of the versatility and athleticism she brings to the field. She has great speed, can impact the game in multiple ways and possesses all the tools we look for in a player. Beyond her physical abilities, Reese brings a contagious energy and a team-first mentality that make those around her better. Her competitiveness, athleticism and ability to contribute in so many ways will be a great addition to our Oregon Softball program."
Maya Matthies, 5-8, INF (B-R/T-R), Chula Vista, Calif. (Mater Dei Catholic High School)
Five-star player and the No. 7 prospect nationally according to Softball America/Rivals, who graded her at 99 out of 100 … Softball America also lists her as the nation's top corner infielder and the No. 3 player in California … Rated the No. 16 player nationally by Perfect Game … Two-time all-state selection … Led Mater Dei Catholic to the San Diego CIF Open Division and State Regional Division 1 championships in both 2025 and 2026 … Two-time all-San Diego CIF honoree … Three-year member of the Metro Mesa League all-conference team … Team captain … Led OC Batbusters Stith to the 2026 Alliance National Championship … Was named the MVP of the 2025 Alliance Super Cup after leading OC Batbusters to the tournament title … Team also won the U18 IDT Boulder Tournament in both 2025 and 2026 … Played internationally on the 2026 USA Southern California Tokyo Exchange Team … USA Softball HPP top performer in 2023, 2024 and 2025 … Also played flag football for Mater Dei and was an all-league performer in 2025-26 … Team won the 2024 flag football San Diego CIF Division 3 championship … National Honor Society … Three Bishop academic excellence awards.
Personal
Born in San Diego, Calif. … Parents are Carina and Tyler Matthies.
Maya Matthies on Oregon
"Oregon Softball has an amazing balance between enjoying the game and pushing each other for greatness. I am a very competitive person and want to work hard and win but also want to enjoy playing softball. I felt that at Oregon, I would be playing with similar people, and my mentality was aligned with the coaching staff and overall purpose and goals of the softball program. I was also impressed by the school spirit and the way athletics are celebrated in the campus community. Oregon feels like a place where I can pursue my degree seriously while competing at an elite level."
Coach Lombardi on Maya Matthies
"Maya is someone who immediately stood out to our staff with her ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball. She brings a strong presence at third base and a powerful bat that we are excited to add to our lineup. Beyond her talent, Maya has an infectious personality, a natural ability to connect with those around her and a tremendous work ethic. Her leadership qualities and competitive drive are exactly what we value in our program and we can't wait to see the impact she makes here at Oregon."
Olivia Pompetti, 5-8, INF (B-R/T-R), Portland, Ore. (Central Catholic High School)
Four-star infielder and the top player from the state of Oregon in the 2027 class (Softball America/Rivals) … Ranked 71st nationally with a 94 grade from Softball America … Is the ninth-best corner infielder in the class … Two-time all-state player … Two-time all-conference first team … The Mt. Hood Conference Player of the Year led Central Catholic to the 2024 league title … In club ball between NW Bullets and Lady Dukes Lamar, won titles at the IDT and June Premier tournaments … Co-champions of the Atlanta Legacy tournament … CO Sparkler – T.V. bracket runners-up … Placed in the Top Gun final three … National Honor Society.
Personal
Born in Portland, Ore. … Parents are Alisa and Dana Pompetti … Mother played softball at Linfield College.
Olivia Pompetti on Oregon
"The Pacific Northwest is such a special place, and having the opportunity to represent my home state means everything to me. I have attended more camps and more games at The Jane than I can count. I fell in love with the program's culture, the players, and the coaching staff. The competitive softball program and team culture have always made the University of Oregon feel like home to me. The energy of Oregon Athletics is electric, and being local and having the opportunity to represent my home state on the field is beyond humbling and exciting."
Coach Lombardi on Olivia Pompetti
"There is something special about keeping homegrown talent right here in Oregon, and we couldn't be happier to welcome Olivia to our program. Olivia brings a strong presence at the corners and a powerful bat that will make an impact in our lineup. We love the way she competes at the plate with her confidence and aggressive mindset. What stands out most about Olivia is her genuine ability to connect with people and bring those around her together. She is someone who makes her teammates better and we are excited to see her represent her home state in a Duck uniform."
Ella Reynolds, 5-9, OF (B-R/T-R), Montclair, N.J. (Montclair High School)
Outfielder with a four-star rating and a 96 grade from Softball America/Rivals is the top player from the state of New Jersey … Ranked No. 38 overall and the No. 3 outfielder nationally by Softball America … Perfect Game's No. 36 player nationally … Helped Montclair High School reach the NJS1G4 quarterfinals in 2025 and the first round in 2026 … Earned first team all-conference honors as a sophomore (2025) and honorable mention as a junior despite missing half the 2026 season due to injury … Played club ball with New Jersey Intensity and Lady Dukes … Team captain for both her high school and club teams … A USA Softball Top Performer.
Personal
Born in New York City … Parents are Kelley Browne-Reynolds and Harold Reynolds … Father Harold was born in Eugene and went on to become a two-time Major League All-Star and Gold Glove second baseman with the Seattle Mariners; he currently works for MLB Network … Uncle Don Reynolds was an all-conference baseball player for the Ducks from 1972-75, and later played for the San Diego Padres … Grandfather Dennis Browne played basketball at Creighton … Has six additional relatives who played collegiate sports, including a cousin, Daryle Hawkins, who played football at Oregon (2009-13).
Ella Reynolds on Oregon
"Above everything else, the culture around and within Oregon Softball was why I chose to attend the University of Oregon. The people within the program are so special. Everyone wants to succeed and they are constantly working to uplift others and I think that is so special. I can feel the love from everyone and they truly are a family."
Coach Lombardi on Ella Reynolds
"Ella brings an exciting combination of power and athleticism to our program. Her ability to drive the ball with authority makes her a dangerous presence in the lineup, and her overall athleticism allows her to impact the game in multiple ways. She is a well-rounded athlete with an impressive skill set, and we believe her combination of physical tools and competitive drive will make her a great addition to Oregon Softball. We are excited to see the impact she will make in a Duck uniform."
Avery Scieszinski, 5-10, C (B-R/T-R), Ankeny, Iowa (Ankeny Centennial High School)
A four-star catcher with a 96 grade according to Softball America … Is the No. 43 player overall nationally and the No. 7 catcher … Also the No. 1 prospect from the state of Iowa … Second-straight top overall player from Iowa to sign with Oregon (Analise DeWitt) … Ranked 29th nationally by Line Drive Media and 33rd by Perfect Game … With Iowa Premier Gold, had top-three finishes at the 2025 AFCS Tier II tournament, the 2025 Triple Crown Nationals and the 2025 Triple Crown 4th of July Power Pool … Invited to play in the 16U Colorado 4th of July Future All Star Game … Principal's Academic Excellence Award … Spirit of the Jaguar Award.
Personal
Born in Des Moines, Iowa … Parents are RaeAnn and Joe Scieszinski … Sister Aubrey Scieszinski plays softball at Grand View University.
Avery Scieszinski on Oregon
"I knew from the time I went to camp at Oregon that I had to be a Duck and that Oregon was my dream school. I fell in love with the coaching staff, the facilities and the team culture. I want to be a part of an Oregon team that plays for each other and has a championship mindset. The championship mindset spreads across all sports and is something I want to be a part of. I feel like I will have all the tools I need to not only be successful on the field but also in the classroom."
Coach Lombardi on Avery Scieszinski
"Avery brings a powerful presence to our program, both behind the plate and in the batter's box. Her ability to command the game as a catcher, combined with her arm strength and defensive skills, makes her a valuable asset. Offensively, she brings the type of power that can change a game with one swing. Avery is also a great leader and a true team player. We love the competitive edge she plays with and look forward to watching her represent Oregon Softball."
- www.GoDucks.com -
Players Mentioned
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