SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Coach Powers welcomes three new Vikings to the 2027 Augustana Softball roster.
Jaidan Abel
Before Augustana: Abel attended Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge, Iowa, where she played for two years. During her time at Iowa Central, her team went 49-12 and placed 8th at the NJCAA Nationals in 2025. In 2026, Abel was named team captain and was a starter for the Tritons.
Personal: Daughter of Bryce Abel and Jessica Moen and Erik Moen. She plans to major in Nursing.
Coach Powers on Abel: "Jaidan brings proven experience, poise, and a competitive presence to the circle for us, adding much-needed depth. She has faced quality competition and brings the maturity and composure to step into a competitive pitching staff and battle for meaningful innings."
Natalie Rasmussen
Before Augustana: Rasmussen also comes to Augustana from Iowa Central Community College. While at Iowa Central, Rasmussen was on the team that placed 8th at the NJCAA Nationals. Rasmussen was a starter and had a batting average of .336. In her second year with the Tritons, Rasmussen was named to the ICAC All-Region First Team, NFCA Midwest All-Region First Team, NFCA First-Team All-American (shortstop), and the NJCAA Second Team All-American (shortstop). Rasmussen also hit 24 home runs with a batting average of .455 in the 2026 season with the Tritons.
Personal: Daughter of Kathleen and Ron Rasmussen. Plans to major in Elementary Education
Coach Powers on Rasmussen: "Natalie brings elite offensive production, versatility, and championship experience to our team. She is an incredibly athletic, high-IQ player who sees the game exceptionally well and plays fearlessly. We can't wait to see her rise to big moments and impact our results in a variety of ways."
Ava Gross
Before Augustana: Ava Gross comes to Augustana from Northwestern College out of Orange City, Iowa. Gross played one year for the Red Raiders, where she garnered First-Team All-Conference (GPAC) honors and was a starter.
Personal: Daughter of Garrett and Mindy Gross. She plans to major in Biology with a minor in Business Administration.
Coach Powers on Gross: "Ava brings an unmatched work ethic and toughness to the table. We expect her to create momentum on both sides of the ball. She is the type of player who consistently puts in the work, embraces competition, and is willing to do whatever the team needs to win."
