Coach Powers Welcomes Three New Vikings to the 2027 Roster

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Coach Powers welcomes three new Vikings to the 2027 Augustana Softball roster. 

Jaidan Abel

Before Augustana: Abel attended Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge, Iowa, the place she performed for 2 years. During her time at Iowa Central, her workforce went 49-12 and positioned eighth on the NJCAA Nationals in 2025. In 2026, Abel was named workforce captain and was a starter for the Tritons.

Personal: Daughter of Bryce Abel and Jessica Moen and Erik Moen. She plans to main in Nursing.

Coach Powers on Abel: “Jaidan brings proven experience, poise, and a competitive presence to the circle for us, adding much-needed depth. She has faced quality competition and brings the maturity and composure to step into a competitive pitching staff and battle for meaningful innings.”

Natalie Rasmussen

Before Augustana: Rasmussen additionally involves Augustana from Iowa Central Community College. While at Iowa Central, Rasmussen was on the workforce that positioned eighth on the NJCAA Nationals. Rasmussen was a starter and had a batting common of .336. In her second 12 months with the Tritons, Rasmussen was named to the ICAC All-Region First Team, NFCA Midwest All-Region First Team, NFCA First-Team All-American (shortstop), and the NJCAA Second Team All-American (shortstop). Rasmussen additionally hit 24 residence runs with a batting common of .455 within the 2026 season with the Tritons. 

Personal: Daughter of Kathleen and Ron Rasmussen. Plans to main in Elementary Education

Coach Powers on Rasmussen: “Natalie brings elite offensive production, versatility, and championship experience to our team. She is an incredibly athletic, high-IQ player who sees the game exceptionally well and plays fearlessly. We can’t wait to see her rise to big moments and impact our results in a variety of ways.”

Ava Gross

Before Augustana: Ava Gross involves Augustana from Northwestern College out of Orange City, Iowa. Gross performed one 12 months for the Red Raiders, the place she garnered First-Team All-Conference (GPAC) honors and was a starter.  

Personal: Daughter of Garrett and Mindy Gross. She plans to main in Biology with a minor in Business Administration.

Coach Powers on Gross: “Ava brings an unmatched work ethic and toughness to the table. We expect her to create momentum on both sides of the ball. She is the type of player who consistently puts in the work, embraces competition, and is willing to do whatever the team needs to win.”