Augusta, Ga. - The start of the 2026 Augusta University softball season is right around the corner and the Jaguars will be tested early and often. The Jaguars open the season Jan. 31 in Salsibury, N.C. with a doubleheader against Catawba College. They will follow that up with several nonconference foes that include  Belmont Abbey, Francis Marion, Newberry, Anderson, Lenoir-Rhyne, North Greenville, Coker, Erskine, Mount Olive, Bartin College and Wingate before starting  Peach Belt Conference play. All those matchups will be doubleheaders as the Jaguars look to be battle tested before they open conference play. 

Highlighting those matchups are four straight home series from Feb. 15 to Feb. 24 at Jaguar Field. 

"This year's schedule is packed with some really strong non PBC opponents. That is intentional," said coach Melissa Brocato. "We know that the PBC is one of the toughest softball conferences in the country, and if we are going to be one of the best we must prepare for our conference schedule by playing a strong nonconference schedule."

Augusta opens conference play when they take on PBC newcomer Middle Georgia March 7-8 at home. The following weekend, the Jags will host Georgia Southwestern before heading to Flagler March 21-22. 

After a nonconference doubleheader against Emmanuel on March 24, the Jags will host Columbus State March 27-28 followed by a midweek battle with Southern Wesleyan. 

Six straight conference series will cap off the season with the annual battle with USCA  April 10-11 in Aiken, S.C.

The Jaguars finish out the year with a road trip to Dahlonega, Ga. for a battle with reigning PBC champion North Georgia. 

"We made great strides last season with a winning record on the field and many great wins off the field. The next step is finish in the top of the conference," said Brocato. "Overall, we have a great program. We've worked hard to create a culture of trust and positivity. We exhibit high academics and service to our community. We're proud of who we are and we're ready to see that pay off in the conference standings. That's the goal."

 Fans of Jaguar Athletics can subscribe to the email listserve by clicking here. Fans can follow Augusta University at www.augustajags.com and receive short updates on Facebook at Augusta University Athletics.