TUCSON, Ariz. — The University of Arizona’s softball program has become one of the most well-represented in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League, with multiple former Wildcats rostered across the six-team league and current star Sydney Stewart now holding a guaranteed spot in the 2026 AUSL College Draft.
Stewart, a utility player and catcher, received her AUSL Golden Ticket from former Arizona and Olympic great Jennie Finch following the Wildcats’ win over Baylor on March 29. She became the fourth player to receive a Golden Ticket for the 2026 draft, joining Texas Tech’s NiJaree Canady and Texas teammates Reese Atwood and Leighann Goode. Karlyn Pickens of Tennessee was later announced as the fifth recipient on April 2.
Arizona’s Deep AUSL Pipeline
The Wildcats’ connection to the AUSL extends well beyond Stewart. Multiple Arizona alumni are already competing at the professional level across the league’s six franchises, establishing the program as a premier pipeline for professional softball talent.
Devyn Netz, who was drafted 10th overall by the Chicago Bandits in the 2025 AUSL Draft, has been one of the most impactful former Wildcats in the league. Pitcher Taylor McQuillin competes for the Carolina Blaze, while pitcher Alyssa Denham and catcher Dejah Mulipola both play for the Portland Cascade.
Arizona’s influence also reaches the front office. Jenny Dalton-Hill, another Wildcats alum and former head coach at UNLV, serves as general manager of the Chicago Bandits, overseeing one of the league’s most active rosters.
Stewart’s Path to the Draft
Stewart has been one of the most versatile players in the Pac-12 and now Big 12 Conference throughout her college career. Her ability to play multiple positions, including catcher and utility roles, gives her significant value to AUSL teams looking for roster flexibility in the league’s early years.
Finch, who serves as an AUSL advisor alongside Cat Osterman, Natasha Watley and Jessica Mendoza, has maintained close ties to the Arizona program and personally delivered the Golden Ticket in an on-field ceremony in Tucson.
What’s Next
The 2026 AUSL College Draft is scheduled for May 4 on ESPN2, with the Carolina Blaze holding the No. 1 overall pick. All six teams — the Blaze, Bandits, OKC Spark, Cascade, Texas Volts and Utah Talons — will select from the pool of Golden Ticket recipients and eligible college athletes. The season opens June 9, with 50 games airing across ESPN networks and ABC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Arizona softball players are in the AUSL?
Several former Arizona Wildcats are in the AUSL: Devyn Netz (Chicago Bandits), Taylor McQuillin (Carolina Blaze), Alyssa Denham (Portland Cascade) and Dejah Mulipola (Portland Cascade). Jenny Dalton-Hill serves as GM of the Chicago Bandits. Sydney Stewart is guaranteed a spot in the 2026 draft.
Did Sydney Stewart receive an AUSL Golden Ticket?
Yes. Sydney Stewart received the fourth 2026 AUSL Golden Ticket on March 29, 2026, presented by Jennie Finch after Arizona’s win over Baylor. She is guaranteed a spot in the May 4 draft on ESPN2.
What position does Sydney Stewart play?
Sydney Stewart is a utility player and catcher for the Arizona Wildcats. Her positional versatility makes her a valuable prospect for AUSL teams looking for roster flexibility.
Who is the GM of the Chicago Bandits?
Jenny Dalton-Hill, a former Arizona Wildcats standout, serves as general manager of the Chicago Bandits in the AUSL.
About Sydney Stewart
Sydney Stewart is a utility player and catcher for the University of Arizona Wildcats softball team. She received the fourth 2026 AUSL Golden Ticket on March 29, 2026, presented by Olympic gold medalist and AUSL advisor Jennie Finch. Stewart’s versatility and production have made her one of the top prospects for the inaugural AUSL College Draft on May 4.
About Aspen Eighty
Aspen Eighty is a female-founded, independent digital publication covering the Athletes Unlimited Softball League. We publish breaking news, scores, draft analysis, and player profiles for all six AUSL teams. Our mission is to amplify women’s professional softball and inspire the next generation of athletes.
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