Lincoln Trail College softball alumni and current players pose for a group photo during the college’s Softball Alumni Recognition event celebrating 50 years of LTC softball.

Posted: Apr 20, 2026

LTC Softball Celebrates 50 Years, Unveils Plans for New Complex

For one evening, the past and present of Lincoln Trail College softball shared the same space.

Former players returned to campus April 18 for the program's 50th Anniversary Alumni Celebration, reconnecting with teammates, meeting current student-athletes and reflecting on the foundation that helped shape women's athletics at LTC.

The event, held in the Learning Commons, brought together generations of players for an evening of stories, recognition and a look ahead at the future of the program.

Current head coach Eva Richardson said having alumni and the 2026 team together in one room created a meaningful moment for the program.

"It all started with that first team 50 years ago," Richardson said. "They helped blaze a trail for women's athletics here, and because of what they did, we have the opportunities we have today."

Members of that original team were in attendance and shared stories from the program's early days, offering perspective on how far LTC softball has come. Their experiences, Richardson said, helped connect current players to the program's history in a tangible way.

Throughout the evening, alumni were recognized and introduced, while current players had the opportunity to meet and interact with those who helped build the program.

Lincoln Trail College Softball Coach Eva Richardson shares plans and renderings for the college's future on-campus softball complex during the Softball Alumni Recognition event.

The celebration also included a look toward the future. Richardson unveiled plans for a new on-campus softball complex, a project that will be supported through a capital campaign.

The proposed facility draws inspiration from the University of Oregon's softball stadium and is designed to enhance the experience for student-athletes while creating a central home for the program on campus.

Following the program, attendees gathered for a group photo and continued conversations during a "stroll down memory lane," reconnecting across generations of LTC softball history.

For Richardson, the evening served as a reminder that the program's success is built on generations of players.

"This is about more than just softball," she said. "It's about the people who came before us and the ones who will come after."