Florida Atlantic University’s softball team opened its 2026 season with an 8-0 win over Indiana at FAU Softball Stadium on Thursday. The game ended after five innings due to the run-rule, marking the Owls’ first shutout to start a season since 2017.
Senior pitcher Autumn Courtney led the defense with eight strikeouts and allowed only three hits. The offense was highlighted by a solo home run from redshirt junior outfielder Kylie Hammonds in the first inning, giving FAU an early lead.
Courtney continued her strong performance in the circle, recording seven strikeouts through four innings. In the fourth inning, junior outfielder Kiley Shelton hit a double for an RBI, followed by another RBI from redshirt senior infielder McKenna Mulholland, extending the lead to 3-0.
The fifth inning saw FAU add five more runs. Sophomore Destiny Johns and senior Jesiana Mora each had RBI singles. Senior Yani Guzman drew a bases-loaded walk as a pinch hitter, and Mulholland finished the game with a two-run double.
This victory is FAU’s first run-rule win over a power conference opponent since 2009. Over the past two seasons, Florida Atlantic has compiled a 7-3 record against power conference teams.
Hammonds reached base in all three plate appearances with a home run, walk, and hit by pitch. Mulholland had two hits and three RBIs in her debut for FAU, while Mora also recorded multiple hits.
After the game, Coach Jordan Clark said: “Postgame with Coach Jordan#WIPpic.twitter.com/L7wrAh45uJ”.
Florida Atlantic will continue play in the Paradise Classic against Ohio State on Friday at 6 p.m.
