By: Trevor Jones  

The Mankato Habaneros are excited to announce the signing of standout pitcher Madison Wihlm for the upcoming season. Wihlm, played at [North Dakota State University], and brings a wealth of experience to the Habaneros’ pitching staff. During her 2024 campaign with the Bison, she logged over 50 innings in the circle, racking up 38 strikeouts while competing at a high level. Known for her composure and ability to attack hitters, Wihlm adds depth and talent to the Habaneros’ rotation. The team looks forward to seeing her make an impact on the mound this season! 

This season marks Madison Wihlm’s debut with the defending champion Mankato Habaneros. When asked what it means to join the team, she expressed her gratitude, calling it a great honor. Wihlm shared how thrilled she was that the Mankato coaches reached out to bring her on board for this next step in her career. She also emphasized her excitement to learn from her teammates and connect with the many players she will meet throughout her summer in Mankato. 

Wihlm made a great point that she is excited to be a part of the community that the Habaneros are a part of. The Habaneros do a lot of work with young softball players in the Mankato community and Wihlm didn’t get that same opportunity as a kid growing up to be around collegiate softball players.  

Madison Wihlm has already built an impressive resume after just one season at North Dakota State University. As a freshman, she was recognized as an Easton/NFCA All-America Scholar-Athlete and earned a spot on the Summit League Academic Honor Roll. In addition to her academic achievements, Wihlm was named Summit League Pitcher of the Week during the season, showcasing her talent on the field. With a strong start to her collegiate career, she has a promising future ahead. 

Reflecting on her freshman season, Wihlm is eager to get back to work and continue growing as a player. She acknowledged the mental challenges of college softball but emphasized the strength of the NDSU sisterhood, noting that their team’s bond helps them overcome any obstacle together. 

Lastly, I asked Wihlm what her future Habaneros teammates should expect from her. She said that she is a high intensity player, and she loves to bring energy to the field. “I have a high passion for the game, and you know I’m just there to ball out and have fun.”  

Come see Madison Wihlm and the Habaneros play at ISG Field for the season kickoff on June 12th as the Habaneros faceoff against the Minot Honeybees at 6:35pm. 

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Leveraging the 31-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 in the Upper Midwest entering its second season in the summer of 2025.  The purpose of the League is to provide an opportunity for players to develop 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. League games are viewable live on Northwoods League+ (at watch.northwoodsleague.com), ESPN+, Women’s Sports Network, and the Northwoods League Network.