The Rose State College Raiders have etched their names into the record books, capping a historic 2025 season with a thrilling run to the NJCAA Division I Softball World Series in Yuma, Arizona. In their first-ever trip to the national tournament, the Raiders stormed into the top 10 in the country, stunning the competition and inspiring a campus and community along the way.
A Dream Realized
From the first fall practice, Head Coach Nickie Madden and her squad set their sights high. “I am incredibly blessed and proud to say that I got to coach this 2025 class,” Madden reflected. “From the Fall, this was their goal to make it to the NJCAA World Series. We put together probably one of the toughest schedules we’ve ever had to help prepare us, and the girls took the rest. By the time we got to the Region Tournament, their minds were set on Yuma. The experience has been outstanding; from the early morning send-off from our faculty and staff, to all the texts from people at home and on campus supporting us, to those that traveled with us. The love could be felt everywhere. Our goal was to come shock the world, and I believe we did that.”
The Raiders did more than just shock the world—they made history. With a 2-2 record in Yuma, including a dramatic upset over #2-seeded McLennan Community College, Rose State proved they belonged on the sport’s biggest stage. The team finished the season with an astonishing 40 wins—the most in program history—setting a new standard for excellence at Rose State.
The Road to Yuma
Rose State’s World Series journey began with a statement 3-1 victory over Lake Land College, powered by clutch pitching and timely hitting. They followed up with a gritty 6-4 win against #2 seed McLennan Community College, toppling a national powerhouse and igniting dreams of a deep run.
Though the Raiders dropped their next two games—falling to Gaston College and then to Crowder College—their resilience and heart never wavered. Each contest was a testament to their preparation, belief, and unity.
A Season of Growth and Grit
Freshman Madi West summed up the emotional journey: “This season our team made history, broke records, and did something that hasn’t been done before. It was the hardest year for me yet—mentally, physically, and spiritually—but through every setback, I can say God was faithful. Looking back now, every hard practice, everything we did with Whitney, every time I failed at something, every lesson I learned through the year was worth it, because of what we accomplished together as a team.”
Sophomore Skylar Wells echoed the sentiment. “Making it to the World Series was more than just a goal—it showed how hard we worked, how close we’ve become, and how much we’re capable of when we stick together. Every practice, every game, every moment brought us closer, and being part of this team has truly changed me for the better.”
A Team United
The Raiders’ success was built on more than just talent. It was forged in the bonds between players and coaches, in shared sacrifice and relentless pursuit of a common dream.
“This team is so special,” said freshman Brooklyn Langford. “Not only did we make history, but this group got so close in the midst of all of it. We had a goal this whole season, and we achieved it! What better way to end a season than in Yuma!”
Sophomore Chloe Broussard added, “This whole season has been a grind and has shown us who we really are and what we are capable of. Coach Madden has been so supportive and great through this whole experience, and she just continues to be someone I look up to every day.”
Memories Made, Legends Born
For these Raiders, the World Series was more than just games played—it was a defining moment.
“Making history in Yuma, Arizona, was truly breathtaking,” said sophomore Dallas Morrison. “It’s one of those moments that you try to prepare for, but when it actually happens, it still takes your breath away. The experience of stepping onto that field for the very first time will stay with me forever. There was a sense of awe and honor in that moment, surrounded by athletes and coaches from across the country. The atmosphere was electric… Yuma wasn’t just a tournament. It was history in the making — and being a part of that story is something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.”
A Lasting Legacy
Coach Madden, recently named South-Central District Coach of the Year, credits her staff—Jessica Sisemore, Carter LaValley, and longtime assistant Coach Phil (Steverson)—for their “hard work and commitment,” and above all, the players for “buying into our goal to stand together and make history.”
“They will forever go down as the First Team to take Rose State Softball to the World Series. What I will take away from them is the love and passion that they played with.”
As the sun sets on a remarkable season, the 2025 Raiders have set a new standard for Rose State softball—one built on heart, unity, and the courage to dream big. Their journey to Yuma and their record-setting 40 wins will be remembered as the year they shocked the world—and became legends.
