The college softball careers of UMSL freshmen Brianna Butler (left) and Madison Zbaraschuk got off to a strong start culminating with both players being named to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-Midwest Region first team. (Photos by Danny Reise)

A pair of freshmen made quite a first impression this season with the start of their college softball playing careers at the University of Missouri–St. Louis.

First baseman Brianna Butler and catcher Madison Zbaraschuk both played their way to inclusion on the National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-Midwest Region first team. Additionally, Butler was named to the Daktronics, Inc., All-Midwest Region first team while Zbaraschuk was a second team pick.

Butler, who was also an unanimous first team All-Great Lakes Valley Conference selection, led the UMSL Tritons in nearly every offensive category this season, batting .404 with 65 hits, including 10 home runs and 12 doubles, 45 RBIs and 30 runs scored. She finished her first collegiate season with the program’s fifth highest single season batting average, while her hits total ranks as the sixth best. Her RBIs were fifth best, while her total bases (107) and home runs were both fourth on the charts.

Zbaraschuk also had an impressive freshman campaign, batting .336 and leading the team with 13 doubles. She tallied 50 hits, including nine home runs and finished with 42 RBIs and 27 runs scored. Zbaraschuk’s nine home runs rank as the eighth best single season total, while her RBIs are the sixth most. She was also an All-GLVC first-team pick.

NFCA member coaches in each of the eight regions selected this year’s All-Region teams and all honorees were eligible to be selected to one of three All-American teams.