LOUISVILLE, Ky. (5/19/26) – Franklin Pierce University softball freshman outfielder Camryn Van Valkenburgh (San Dimas, Calif.) has been named one of eight finalists for the 2026 National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Division II Freshman of the Year award, as announced by the organization on Wednesday afternoon. 

Van Valkenburgh becomes the first student-athlete in program history to earn finalist recognition for the national award following a historic freshman campaign for the Ravens. Her breakout season helped lead Franklin Pierce to the program's first-ever national ranking, the Northeast 10 Conference Regular Season Championship, and an NCAA East Regional appearance. 

Van Valkenburgh put together one of the top offensive seasons in the conference, batting .429 with 57 hits, 40 RBI, 43 runs scored, and 24 stolen bases. She finished second on the team in batting average while earning Northeast 10 Conference Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year honors.  

In addition to her conference honors, Van Valkenburgh earned All-NE10 First Team recognition, was selected to the NE10 All-Defensive Team, and collected NFCA and D2CCA All-East Region First Team honors. She played a key role in helping Franklin Pierce finish the regular season with a 40-8 overall record and a 30-6 mark in conference play. 

Van Valkenburgh joins seven other finalists representing each region across Division II softball. The winner of the 2026 NFCA Division II Freshman of the Year award will be announced on Tuesday, May 26. 

NFCA Division II Freshman of the Year Finalists