Catcher | University of Texas | AUSL Golden Ticket Recipient
About Reese Atwood
Reese Atwood is one of the most prolific power hitters in NCAA softball history and the second player to receive an AUSL golden ticket for the 2026 College Draft. Announced on March 28, 2026, her selection recognizes a career defined by record-breaking home runs and elite defensive play behind the plate at the University of Texas.
A two-time All-American, Atwood holds the Texas Longhorns career home run record and earned the 2025 NFCA Catcher of the Year award along with the prestigious Johnny Bench Award, given annually to the best catcher in collegiate baseball and softball. Her combination of offensive power and defensive skill has made her one of the most complete players in the college game.
Career Highlights
- AUSL golden ticket recipient (March 28, 2026)
- 2025 NFCA Catcher of the Year
- 2025 Johnny Bench Award winner
- Texas Longhorns career home run record holder
- Two-time All-American
- 2026 USA Softball Women’s National Team athlete pool
AUSL Draft Status
- Golden Ticket: March 28, 2026
- Draft Show: May 4, 2026 on ESPN2, 7 PM ET
- AUSL Team: TBD
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Reese Atwood?
Reese Atwood is a catcher at the University of Texas and the second AUSL Golden Ticket recipient for the 2026 College Draft. She holds the Texas Longhorns career home run record and is a two-time All-American who won the 2025 NFCA Catcher of the Year award and the prestigious Johnny Bench Award.
What AUSL team will Reese Atwood play for?
Reese Atwood’s AUSL team will be announced during the 2026 AUSL College Draft on May 4, 2026, live on ESPN2 at 7:00 PM ET. As one of the most complete players in the draft class, she is expected to be a top selection. Follow Draft Watch for updates.
What awards has Reese Atwood won?
Atwood’s accolades include: 2025 NFCA Catcher of the Year, 2025 Johnny Bench Award winner (best catcher in collegiate baseball/softball), Texas Longhorns career home run record holder, two-time All-American, and selection to the 2026 USA Softball Women’s National Team athlete pool alongside fellow Golden Ticket recipients NiJaree Canady and Karlyn Pickens.
Is Reese Atwood on the USA Softball team?
Reese Atwood was named to the 2026 USA Softball Women’s National Team athlete pool, announced on April 2, 2026. This pool includes the top players eligible for international competition. Fellow AUSL Golden Ticket recipients NiJaree Canady and Karlyn Pickens were also named to the pool.
When was Reese Atwood’s Golden Ticket announced?
Reese Atwood received her AUSL Golden Ticket on March 28, 2026, making her the second player selected for the 2026 AUSL College Draft. She was announced one day after NiJaree Canady.
Connect with Reese Atwood
- Instagram: @reesee_atwoodd
- Official School Bio: Texas Longhorns Athletics
- NIL Profile: Opendorse
Other Golden Ticket Recipients
- NiJaree Canady — Texas Tech, Pitcher
- Leighann Goode — University of Texas, Shortstop / Second Base
- Sydney Stewart — University of Arizona, Catcher
- Karlyn Pickens — University of Tennessee, Pitcher
- Dakota Kennedy — University of Arkansas, Outfielder
- Kenzie Brown — Arizona State University, Pitcher