KANSAS CITY, Mo. - (NAIA Release) - The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has announced the 2023 Softball All-America teams as selected by the NAIA-Softball Coaches Association All-America Committee. The Wolverine Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) boasts a trio of players on the list. Shannon McAlinden (Concordia) earned a spot on the 2nd team while Payton Lewis (Concordia) and Maeson Schlaud (Madonna) received Honorable Mention selections.
Shannon McAlinden had a phenomenal season for the Cardinals and was previously named a WHAC First-Team selection. The junior outfielder hit .410 on the season with nine home runs and 53 RBI. On the base paths she nabbed 40 steals, good for 15th in the NAIA.
In just her sophomore season, infielder Payton Lewis put together an outstanding season that earned her WHAC Player of the Year honors in addition to her Honorable Mention All-American selection. Lewis hit .429 on the campaign with 37 RBI, 17 doubles, three triples and a trio of home runs.
After being named the WHAC Pitcher of the Year and All-WHAC First Team, junior pitcher Maeson Schlaud can now add All-American Honorable Mention to her resume. The right-hander made 39 appearances, posting a 25-6 record and a dazzling 1.49 ERA with 268 strike outs. She also twirled a remarkable three no-hitters and a perfect game this season.
2nd Team All-American Selections
OF - Shannon McAlinden, Jr., Concordia
Honorable Mention Selections
IF - Payton Lewis, So., Concordia
P - Maeson Schlaud, Jr., Madonna