On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, Freshman catcher Alaina Diaz joins me following a dominant doubleheader sweep over Wheaton. We dive into her reaction to being named to the NFCA Division III "Player of the Year" Watch List and what it’s like hitting in the heart of a Vikings offense ranked among the nation’s best.

Alaina also talks about her connection with Coach Nelson, the influence of her parents as role models, and how she gives back by coaching young catchers. Plus, we get the story behind the “Queen of the Diamond” belt. A great conversation with one of the CCIW’s brightest young stars!

On Episode 50 of Vikings Press Pass, we celebrate this podcast's 50th Episode milestone with Freshman shortstop Alexis Duke from the Augustana Softball team. Alexis shares what it’s been like making an immediate impact in her first year, including a huge doubleheader performance vs. Wheaton and what it takes to be successful in the leadoff spot (leadoff stats: 11-21, .524 BA, .615 OBP, .857 SLG, 1 HR) We also talk about her path to Augie, why her role model is her older brother, and how her relationship with Coach Nelson solidified her coming to Augustana. From national rankings to team chemistry, it’s a great chat with one of the rising stars in the CCIW!

On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by Junior 3B Emma Evans from the Augustana Softball team. We break down a jam-packed week on the diamond that included three doubleheaders and the start of conference play. Emma reflects on key moments from wins over Buena Vista and Millikin, the slugfest with Carthage, and how the team is holding strong at 13-3 overall.

We also explore Emma’s journey from Farmington, Illinois, and how her ACL injury led her down the path of her double major in Kinesiology and Communication. She gives us a preview of her glove, dishes out her hottest "hot chocolate" take, and helps us cast the Augustana softball team as characters from Grey’s Anatomy—yes, seriously. It’s a fun, insightful conversation with one of the Vikings’ most genuine voices—don’t miss it!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by fifth-year Senior Alex Simon from the Baseball team. We dive into his decision to return for another season. Alex breaks down his versatility on the field—playing third base, catcher, first base, and DH—and shares his thoughts on the Vikings’ season so far, including their battles in close games. We also discuss the art of switch-hitting, how a childhood game really influenced him to become a switch-hitter. We talk about the lasting mark he leaves statistically at Augustana, but more importantly as a great teammate. Off the field, Alex talks about his work as a Geospatial Engineer , his plans after baseball to move to Florida, and we learn his middle name is Wrigley (Go Cubs Go!). A great conversation with a standout Viking—don’t miss it!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by Junior Emily Gad from the Augustana Softball team. We break down the team’s road-heavy schedule the past week between Tennessee and Florida (JV + Varsity), how that talent compares to the CCIW, and key takeaways from their early-season success. Plus, English Education, the impact and support from her parents, her path to Augustana, Lana Del Rey, and most importantly which teammates are the Ross, Joey, Rachel and Chandlers of the group (HINT: She's a big F.R.I.E.N.D.S. fan). Emily brings the energy on a fun one!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by senior Cameron Miller from the Augustana Baseball team. We discuss his pitching style and how he embraces the pressure of closing out games or pitching in high-stakes situations.

Cameron also reflects on the team’s recent trip to the RussMatt Invitational in Florida, comparing the competition there to what they’ll face as they begin CCIW play at North Central tomorrow. Beyond baseball, we dive into his aspirations of becoming a Sheriff’s Deputy, his leadership approach, and his advice for the next generation of bullpen leaders. (insert: Bad Boys theme from Cops)

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by Junior Marley Behm from the Augustana Softball team. The Vikings are off to a dominant 6-0 start, and we dive into what’s been clicking for the team early on. Marley shares her thoughts on the home opener against Coe, the team’s chemistry, and what makes this season feel special.

We also talk about her Colorado roots, the Avalanche winning the Stanley Cup, and a few of her favorite hometown spots: Magill's World of Ice Cream and Coyote Artisan Table. #LetsRide

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by fifth-year senior Dymitri Kanellakis to break down the Vikings’ 6-4 start to the season, his transition from center to left field, and his motivation for returning for one final year. We dive into the team’s offensive firepower, the maturity of several standout freshmen, his growth as a player, playing at the U of Iowa, and how he prepares for game day. We wrap things up with the Mets, Mike Trout, Barry Bonds, and some words of wisdom for the underclassmen.