INDIANA, Pa. – IUP softball and head coach Shawna Bellaud will host walk-on tryouts for the 2026-27 season on Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 3 p.m. at Ruth Podbielski Field on IUP's South Campus.

Students interested in trying out must meet all NCAA and university eligibility requirements before participating.

Current IUP students must be enrolled full time and be in good academic standing. Prospective student-athletes who are not currently enrolled at IUP must be outside of their sport's traditional playing season. In addition, all participants must complete the required medical paperwork and register with the NCAA Eligibility Center before they can officially join the program.

Anyone planning to participate should contact certified athletic trainer Jamie D'Andrea at J.R.Dandrea@iup.edu to obtain the required medical forms for the upcoming academic year. All medical paperwork must be submitted by Aug. 20.

Prospective student-athletes should also notify head coach Shawna Bellaud at shawna.bellaud@iup.edu of their intent to participate in the tryout.

An informational meeting for all participants will be held at 4 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 24, in the Susquehanna Room of the Student Hub. Walk-on tryouts will take place two days later at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 26, at Ruth Podbielski Field.

Participants should bring all necessary softball equipment, including a bat, glove, cleats or turf shoes and appropriate athletic attire. Players are also encouraged to bring water, sports drinks and any additional refreshments needed during the tryout.

The tryout provides an opportunity for aspiring Crimson Hawks to showcase their skills and compete for a roster spot on an IUP program coming off one of the most successful seasons in school history. The Crimson Hawks tied the program record with 38 victories in 2026, captured the PSAC West regular-season title and advanced to the PSAC Tournament semifinals under Bellaud.