Melby Named First Team All-Region, Simpkins Earns Honorable Mention

CUMBERLAND, Md. — A pair of Allegany College of Maryland sophomores have been recognized among the top players in the region, as Natalie Melby and Jaynie Simpkins earned NJCAA Region 20 Division II All-Region honors for the 2026 softball season.

Melby headlined the duo with a First Team All-Region selection, while Simpkins was named Honorable Mention, following standout campaigns at the plate and in the field.

Melby put together one of the most complete offensive seasons in Region 20, leading the Trojans with a .389 batting average and 1.053 OPS over 31 starts. The sophomore totaled 35 hits, 34 runs scored, and 20 RBIs, while adding eight doubles and two home runs for a .544 slugging percentage. Her presence at the plate was equally defined by discipline and consistency, drawing 19 walks to just four strikeouts and finishing with an impressive .509 on-base percentage. On the bases, Melby was flawless, going a perfect 9-for-9 in stolen base attempts. She also delivered several of the Trojans' top individual performances of the season, including a four-hit performance against Cecil College on March 28 and a three-double game against Christendom College on March 31. Later in the season, she showcased her patience with a four-walk game against Chesapeake College. Melby's impact extended well beyond statistics. She was honored as the team's Most Valuable Player at the end-of-season banquet and was recognized as Allegany College of Maryland's Female Student-Athlete of the Year, capping off a remarkable sophomore campaign.

Simpkins also played a critical role in the Trojans' success, earning All-Region Honorable Mention honors after appearing in all 32 games. She finished the season batting .320 with an .822 OPS, collecting 31 hits, 23 runs scored, and 21 RBIs.
An extra-base threat, Simpkins recorded eight doubles and one home run, contributing to a .433 slugging percentage. She also showed efficiency on the bases, going a perfect 4-for-4 in stolen base attempts, while maintaining a .389 on-base percentage.
Together, Melby and Simpkins anchored an ACM offense that produced multiple standout performances throughout the season, including big offensive outings in conference play.

With their sophomore seasons complete, both student-athletes will take the next step in their academic and athletic careers, continuing their softball journeys at four-year institutions.

Their All-Region recognition not only reflects individual excellence but also highlights the continued growth and competitiveness of the ACM softball program.