NJCAA Softball World Series returns to Yuma
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The 2025 National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division I Softball World Series is officially underway in Yuma, bringing 20 of the nation's top junior college programs to the Pacific Avenue Athletic Complex for a shot at the national title.
Play begins Monday, with teams already in town holding practice sessions ahead of the big games.
Arizona Western College (AWC) is representing the local community in this national tournament, and the Matadors say they’ve come together at just the right time.
"At the start of the season we were like, 'I don't think we're gonna make it,'" said freshman outfielder Lea Frechette. "But at the end, we were really bonding and everything worked well for us."
Sophomore pitcher Daysy Juarez, a Yuma native, says getting to play in front of her hometown means everything.
"I think it's a blessing because I'm from here...I feel like we're just ready to go with these bunch of girls," she said. "I love them so much."
Florida Southwestern Head Coach Robert Iamurri says what makes this tournament special is the range of programs represented.
"I love the 20 because it's bringing people from all over the country—different sizes of teams. It’s going to be an exciting atmosphere for the local community," he said.
Rose State Head Coach Nickie Madden agrees.
"I love competition," she said. "Let's see where we rank up with everybody else and let's go compete."
The tournament is being hosted by AWC and the City of Yuma. Michael McBrayer, Grayson College's Athletic Director and Head Softball Coach, commended the effort.
"Kudos to those guys and to the city of Yuma for putting this on," he said. "It's no small feat."
Ticket Information: Day passes are $12, and children 12 and under enter free. A full tournament pass is available for $60. Tickets can be purchased online HERE.
The championship game is scheduled for Saturday, May 24.
