University of Northern Iowa Athletics
Panther softball claims three weekly awards
4/14/2026 12:03:00 PM | Softball
ST. LOUIS — The Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) announced its weekly softball awards on Tuesday morning. Ava Smithson, Peyton Johnson, and Brynn Acton were named Player, Newcomer, and Freshman of the Week, respectively. This is Ava Smithson's first Player of the Week honor, Johnson's fourth Newcomer of the Week honor, and Acton's second Freshman of the Week honor.
Ava Smithson recorded seven hits and four runs in 11 at-bats for a .636 batting average, leading the Panthers in a 3-0 weekend against the UIC Flames. Smithson slugged 1.636, also leading the Cats, with three home runs, two doubles, and 10 RBIs to go along with 18 total bases.
Peyton Johnson batted .571 for UNI in three starts with four hits and two runs in seven at-bats. Johnson slugged 1.286 with one home run and a triple for nine total bases and three RBIs. Johnson walked five times for a .750 on-base percentage.
Brynn Acton was responsible for UNI's comeback victory in UNI's game three against UIC, as the freshman finished that game with three home runs, including a grand slam, in three at-bats. Acton had her second three-home run game of the season, the only player in Division I with multiple three-home run games. Acton finished the weekend with eight runs and four hits in 12 at-bats and three walks. Acton slugged 1.333 with four home runs and 10 RBIs with 16 total bases.
The Panthers head to the site of the MVC Tournament on April 17 and 18, as UNI takes on Southern Illinois in Carbondale, Illinois. First pitch of game one of the Friday doubleheader is scheduled for 2 p.m. CT. All three matchups will be available to stream on ESPN+.
UNI softball action can be followed all season long on social media on Facebook (UNI Softball), X (@UNISoftball), and on Instagram (@unisoftball). The 2026 schedule and roster, along with the latest Panther news and information can be found online at UNIpanthers.com.
