CEDAR CITY, Utah — The Southern Utah University Thunderbirds wrapped up their 2025 campaign with an 18-27 overall record and a 13-13 mark in Western Athletic Conference (WAC) play, clinching the No. 3 seed in the conference tournament. It was a season defined by development, resilience, and a culture shift that set the tone for the future of SUU Softball.
"I think we turned a page this year," said Head Coach Don Don Williams, who credited the team's improvement to incredible player leadership, coaching adjustments, and buy-in across the roster. "We weren't great at the beginning, but we got better every week. From the weight room to the field, they showed up, got to work, and committed to improving every day."
The Thunderbirds' non-conference slate was anything but light. SUU faced 10 Power Five programs in its 19-game preseason stretch, with six of those teams eventually advancing to the NCAA Regionals. That trial by fire forged a tougher, more unified team that carried its lessons into WAC play.
After a strong showing to open the conference season against Tarleton, SUU was handed a wake-up call during a three-game sweep at Abilene Christian, one played through a brutal Texas dust storm and difficult travel conditions. Instead of unraveling, the T-Birds responded strongly the following week.
"That ACU weekend was a gut check," Williams said. "But we kept it in perspective. We learned from it. We got better." SUU bounced back to take the next series against California Baptist, showing grit and maturity down the stretch.
Stars Shine: Ramirez, Salvatierra Earn All-WAC Honors
Among the season's standouts was sophomore slugger Arianna Ramirez, who earned First Team All-WAC honors after putting together one of the most dominant offensive campaigns in program history. Ramirez led the Thunderbirds in nearly every offensive category and batted almost .500 in conference play.
"We talked with Ari before the season and challenged her to step up," Williams said. "She just bought into her approach at the plate, stayed disciplined, and became that power presence we needed. Her poise and consistency were incredible."
Freshman sensation Michaella Salvatierra made an immediate impact at the top of the lineup, earning Second Team All-WAC recognition. Her speed and situational awareness brought a new dynamic to SUU's offense.
"We knew when we signed Micha that she could be a true leadoff hitter, something we've lacked for years," Williams said. "She sets the tone, gets on base, and finds a way to make something happen every time she's up. She's a program-changer."
Team Depth and Late-Season Surge
The Thunderbirds also benefited from the consistent contributions of veterans Laurie Cooke, Ariyana Miranda, and Amayah Boostedt, who brought power and presence to the middle of the lineup. Cooke moved from the 8-9 spot a season ago into the No. 2 slot and thrived in her senior year. Miranda delivered timely RBIs and long balls that proved crucial throughout conference play.
"You have to have those pieces around your star hitters to win games in this conference," Williams noted. "Laurie figured it out this year, and Ariy stepped up big in key moments. It takes a full lineup to win in the WAC."
Emerging players Taralyn Ollison and Alayah Toscano gave the T-Birds a late-season lift, especially in the outfield. Toscano, patrolling center field, became a defensive anchor, while both players improved their plate approach and base-running as the season progressed.
"Alayah leads this team from center field. She runs everything down out there," Williams said. "Taralyn became dependable in key moments. Their growth was huge for us in the final stretch."
Building a Foundation
With postseason accolades, a top-three conference finish, and clear evidence of program-wide growth, the Thunderbirds are laying a strong foundation for future success. Coach Williams believes the recognition for Ramirez and Salvatierra is just the beginning of what's possible at SUU.
"You can come here, get developed, and get recognized," she said. "That shows incoming players what we're about. We're recruiting the right kids. We're fishing in the right pond."
The Thunderbirds have a strong incoming class next season that will help to elevate the program even further.
"We have seven incoming freshmen from excellent summerball programs. It is an elite recruiting class for us that we feel will fill some of our gaps."
Coach Williams expressed her gratitude for everyone involved with the growth of the program this season.
"A ton of gratitude for our fans, for the support at our games, the belief from my staff and team, and the ownership everyone took. This season was a very special experience."
For a program that began the season facing some of the toughest competition in the nation, the turnaround speaks volumes about the character and culture of this group. The 2025 Thunderbirds didn't just compete—they evolved. And with a core of returning talent and growing momentum, the best may be yet to come.
On Deck
Coach Don Don Williams has now headed into the offseason looking to reload and build off this season's success. Don't miss your chance to see Assistant Coach Taylor McQuillan as she competes with the AUSL Bandits this summer. Their inaugural season will begin on June 13, 2025, when they take on the Blaze. For More details, go to theausl.com.
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