Steam Welcomes Back Coaching Duo
Head Coach Alonzo and Associate Head Coach Protsman Return for 2026
LA CROSSE, WIS. — The La Crosse Steam are pleased to announce that Head Coach Brandi Alonzo and Associate Head Coach Jan Protsman will both return for their third seasons with the organization during the 2026 Northwoods League Softball campaign.
Alonzo returns for her second season as head of the ballclub, and third with the organization. Alonzo played a vital role during the Steam’s 2025 season, helping guide the team to 16 victories and a league leading 13 triples, while continuing to support the development of collegiate athletes on and off the field. Her familiarity with the Northwoods League and the Steam organization provides valuable continuity as the team builds toward the upcoming season.
“I’m thrilled to be back with The Steam” stated Alonzo. “The last two summers have been unforgettable, and I’m excited to keep that momentum going. Having core returners back alongside a talented group of new athletes who will be joining the Steam makes this season especially exciting. I can’t wait to get started!”
In addition to her role with the Steam, Alonzo enters her 12th season as head softball coach at Viterbo University. Under her leadership, nine players have earned All-Conference honors and eight have been named NAIA Scholar-Athletes. Originally from Franklinton, Louisiana, Alonzo brings a wealth of experience at multiple collegiate levels. Alonzo is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi, where she earned Conference USA All-Freshman Team honors.
Protsman returns for his third season with the Steam. Protsman, who is from Iowa, is an assistant coach entering his second season at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse. He also coaches high school and travel ball athletes from the Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota area.
Said Protsman: “I’m honored to coach with the La Crosse Steam again in 2026. The organization is committed to development, both on and off the field, and I am excited to be back for another season.”
The La Crosse Steam kick off the 2026 season on Wednesday, June 10 at Copeland Park when they host the Wausau Ignite. Season tickets, group outings, and flex plans are available now. Fans can purchase tickets at lacrossesteam.com or by calling the Steam ticket office at (608) 796-9553. The Steam front office, located at 1225 Caledonia Street in La Crosse, is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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Leveraging the 32-year success of the Northwoods League, the first for-profit Summer Collegiate Baseball League, Northwoods League Softball (NWLS) is the first for-profit Women’s Summer Collegiate Softball League which began play in the Upper Midwest in the summer of 2024. The purpose of the League will be to develop players for their college, Olympic and future professional play. Teams will be promoted similar to minor league baseball teams, playing games in front of fans in a fun, friendly, family-oriented environment.
