NORTHAMPTON, Mass. — Smith College junior outfielder Ally Knutson (Green Bay, WI/Bay Port)  has been named to the 2026 National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Division III Player and Pitcher of the Year Watchlist, the organization announced. Knutson is one of 14 players selected for the Region II honor, representing one of the premier individual accolades in NCAA Division III softball.

A Chemistry and Astronomy double major, Knutson has been a driving force in Smith's lineup this season, contributing on multiple fronts as the Bears have built a 9-10 overall record and a 3-3 mark in conference play. Her ability to get on base and create runs has been central to Smith's offensive identity throughout the 2026 campaign.

Knutson's impact was on full display in Smith's recent doubleheader sweep of Emerson College, where she played a key role in both victories. In the 11-2 opening game victory, Knutson helped fuel the Bears' offensive explosion by reaching base and factoring into Smith's six-run fourth inning. Her performance in the nightcap was even more clutch: she scored twice, recorded two hits, and drew a walk — then delivered the pivotal play of the game in the seventh inning, singling to center field and advancing to third on a throwing error before being driven home by Riley Veenstra (Oakland, CA/Bishop O'Dowd) for the game-winning run in a 3-2 Smith victory.

Knutson's selection to the NFCA watchlist reflects not only her individual production but also the growing profile of Smith's softball program on the national stage. The watchlist serves as an early-season indicator of the top players in Division III across all 10 regions, with final Player and Pitcher of the Year honors determined at the conclusion of the season.

About Smith Athletics Smith College is a NCAA Division III member of the New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) that sponsors 11 intercollegiate sports. For more information, log on to GoSmithBears.com and follow the Bears on Facebook and Instagram.