Grand Rapids Reporter

Big Rapids, Mich. - The Ferris State University softball team has strengthened its 2025 class with the addition of two all-state players from West Michigan. Ava Gardner and Addison Gillard have joined the Bulldogs, both having led their teams to state semifinals last season.

Head coach Jake Schumann announced that Gardner, an outfielder, and Gillard, a right-handed pitcher, are now part of the program. Both athletes were named to the all-state first team squad.

"Ava was originally signed to play Division I softball at Purdue Fort Wayne until they decided to drop their program last month," said Schumann. "She was voted as the best outfielder in the state by a fan poll and her senior season did not disappoint. Overall, she's athletic, has a strong arm, good range and has a ton of pop in her bat."

Schumann expressed gratitude for Gardner's decision to join Ferris State: "We are so thankful to have Ava as a Dawg," he added. "She chose us over several other Division I and II in-state schools and is a huge addition to an already deep roster."

Gillard's presence is expected to enhance the pitching staff for 2026. "Addison is the younger sister of Bulldog Emma Gillard," Schumann noted. "Addi brings an elite change up to our rotation and a Dawg mentality in the circle. She's a two-way player that may also find herself in the mix with the bat. We look for Addi to make an immediate impact on our staff this year."

Ferris State achieved 28 wins last year under Schumann's leadership, marking their highest number of victories in ten years and securing their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2013.