DeLAND, Fla. — A day at Patricia Wilson Field is about more than just what happens in the circle. It's a full game-day experience. From interactive fan promotions and themed weekends to team traditions and family-friendly activities, Stetson Softball offers something for fans of all ages throughout the 2026 season.
Before the season officially gets underway, Stetson Softball will welcome fans, supporters and families to the Stetson Softball Preseason Picnic & Fundraiser on Saturday, January 31, from 3:00–6:00 p.m. at Patricia Wilson Field. The annual event serves as a celebration of the upcoming season and an opportunity for the Hatter community to connect with the program ahead of Opening Weekend.
Fans are invited to enjoy an afternoon of food, fun and softball, with all Stetson Softball student-athletes in attendance to spend time with fans and sign posters. Kids will have the chance to run the bases following the completion of swings, while lawn games such as cornhole and Connect Four will be available throughout the event. Prospective female student-athletes in grades 7–12 are welcome to attend and meet the team; however, per NCAA regulations, they are not permitted to hit off Stetson pitchers or coaching staff. Multiple ticket options are available, with additional swings available for purchase on-site.
Just one week later, the Hatters officially open the 2026 home schedule, welcoming fans back to Patricia Wilson Field for another spring filled with competitive softball, exciting matchups and a full slate of promotional events.
Every Stetson home game features a variety of fan-favorite promotions designed to keep fans engaged from first pitch to the final out. When the Hatters record a strikeout, fans should keep their heads up during the Strikeout T-Shirt Toss, as a Stetson T-shirt could be coming their way. One lucky row will also be selected each game as part of Jeremiah's Winning Inning, earning a coupon for Jeremiah's Italian Ice.
Fans are encouraged to stay locked in on the basepaths as well, as the Jimmy John's Freaky Fast Stolen Base of the Game rewards one randomly selected fan with a free sandwich coupon whenever the Hatters swipe a bag.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Friday, February 6 | 3:00 p.m.
vs. UT Martin
Opening Weekend at Patricia Wilson Field gets underway as the Hatters welcome UT Martin for the first home game of the 2026 season.
Friday, February 6 | 5:30 p.m.
vs. Seton Hall
Opening Weekend continues with an evening matchup as fans settle in for a full day of softball in DeLand.
Saturday, February 7 | 3:00 p.m.
Opening Weekend action continues at Patricia Wilson Field.
Saturday, February 7 | 5:30 p.m.
vs. Indiana State
The Hatters close Opening Weekend with a primetime matchup under the lights.
Saturday, February 14 | 3:30 p.m.
vs. Maine — Breast Cancer Awareness / Pink Out
Fans are encouraged to wear pink as the Hatters take the field in special pink jerseys. Zeta Tau Alpha will be tabling at the game and distributing pink ribbons as part of an afternoon dedicated to awareness and support.
Wednesday, March 11 | 6:00 p.m.
vs. Baylor — Military Appreciation Day
Stetson honors those who serve during a special Military Appreciation Day at Patricia Wilson Field. Operation Hat Trick merchandise will be available for purchase, and fans can receive Pit Viper–style sunglasses while supplies last. The game also marks the team's first home contest following Spring Break.
Saturday, March 14 | 2:00 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
vs. North Florida — Decades Weekend
Sunday, March 15 | 1:00 p.m.
vs. North Florida — Decades Weekend
Step back in time for a full weekend of themed softball fun. Saturday's first game features an 1980s theme, followed by a 1990s theme in game two, with Sunday highlighting the 2000s. Music, video board elements and in-game presentation will reflect each decade throughout the weekend.
Tuesday, March 17 | 5:00 p.m.
St. Patrick's Day / Green Out
Patricia Wilson Field turns green as fans are encouraged to wear green in celebration of St. Patrick's Day. The first 100 fans will receive a green Stetson T-shirt, with St. Patrick's Day–themed video board graphics featured throughout the game.
Saturday, March 28 | 1:00 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.
Royal Flush Weekend
Sunday, March 29 | 1:00 p.m.
Royal Flush Weekend
A unique interactive promotion takes over Patricia Wilson Field. Each fan will receive a playing card upon entering the stadium, and during each inning a random card will be drawn. Fans holding the matching card can report to the marketing table to claim a prize.
Wednesday, April 1 | 6:00 p.m.
vs. Florida — Presented by State Farm
One of the season's marquee in-state matchups comes to Patricia Wilson Field as the Hatters host Florida. Amanda Agnew State Farm will be tabling at the game as fans rally behind Stetson in a key contest.
Saturday, April 18 | 1:00 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.
vs. West Georgia — Little League Day / Alumni Day
A celebration of Hatter Softball past and future. DeLand Little League will be invited to attend, with youth players serving as anthem buddies and participating in the player introduction tunnel. A postgame autograph session will be held for kids, while alumni are welcomed back to Patricia Wilson Field.
Saturday, May 2 | 2:00 p.m.
vs. FGCU — Senior Day
The Hatters honor their seniors in their final home appearance of the season. Senior recognition will take place one hour prior to first pitch, with custom video board graphics highlighting each senior throughout the game.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters
