The Saint Leo University softball team achieved a remarkable Division II national championship victory in June 2026, completing an impressive 54-3-1 season. Their journey began during the first team meeting in January when head coach Erin Kinberger shared her personal battle with breast cancer and recovery from double mastectomy surgery. Despite losing arm mobility during treatment, Kinberger used her physical therapy experience to teach the team about resilience, belief, and imagination. The Lions became only the second number one seed since 2016 to win a Division II softball national title and the first Florida school since 1993 to do so. The championship game featured a dramatic comeback where junior Sydney Cline made a diving catch in the fourth inning before Izzy LaRoche hit a two-run triple in the seventh to secure a 5-2 victory. Coach Kinberger, who returned to Saint Leo after successful coaching stints at Fort Hays State University, emphasized that team chemistry and mutual accountability were key factors in their success. The team’s undefeated postseason run included winning streaks of 38 and 11 games during the regular season, making them one of the few national champions with only four losses. Kinberger expressed pride in how a small school with a tight-knit community could achieve such greatness through dedication and support.
Saint Leo Softball Team Wins National Championship After Coach Overcomes Cancer
