LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) has released its second listing of the NFCA/GoRout DII Coaches Poll this season, and having made a massive jump from receiving votes to the 11^th-ranked group in the nation is Mulerider Softball.
 
Southern Arkansas has begun the 2026 campaign with a 10-0 record after two weeks, in which the Muleriders have recorded two run-rules, a no-hitter, and a seven-run win over then ninth-ranked Augustana.
 
Southern Arkansas' ranking marks the highest the unit has been placed since the NFCA tabbed the Muleriders at ninth during the week 11 poll in 2025.
 
Team 28's upcoming weekend slate, on paper, looks to be the most challenging so far this season. The Blue and Gold look to compete in four contests this weekend in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, for the MIAA/GAC Crossover, as the Muleriders will take on three of the NFCA's top-25 groups. On Friday, SAU will take on the 12^th-ranked Rogers State Hillcats. For Saturday, the Muleriders will take on the seventh-ranked Central Oklahoma Bronchos and the 17^th-ranked Missouri Southern State Lions.
 
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