By: Trevor Jones  

Now stepping into the spotlight for the Mankato Habaneros is Sami Potvin, a talented first-year pitcher bringing heat from the heart of the Midwest. A freshman at {Iowa State University}, Potvin is already making waves with her poise on the mound and powerful presence in the circle. Known for her competitive edge and sharp command, she’s quickly proving she belongs at this level. The Habaneros are excited to have her anchoring the pitching staff this season.  

After doing a deep dive into Potvin she has a successful past and is looking to translate her success to the Habaneros. She was a  four-year starter and letterwinner for Olympia, Potvin pitched and played first base for coach Jason Stensby a team captain, Potvin earned Pitcher of the Year three times and was a First Teamer in the South Puget Sound League she helped Olympia be a three-year state qualifier totaled over 200 strikeouts in three straight seasons was a member of National Honor Society.  

I had the chance to speak with Potvin about her decision to attend Iowa State. She shared that she was drawn to the big-school environment and the chance to compete at a high level. The coaching staff and team atmosphere also stood out as key factors. Notably, Potvin is majoring in Political Science at Iowa State. Team chemistry has been a recurring theme in our preseason interviews; how does a group maintain strong culture and unity? After hearing from the players, it’s clear the Habaneros are once again poised to build something special. 

Looking ahead to the summer, Potvin said she’s excited to face new competition. With each team in the NWSL made up of players from a variety of schools, it brings a unique challenge. The diversity of talent across the league offers a great preview of the next step in every athlete’s softball journey. 

Over the summer Potvin is looking to increase her speed in the circle. She noted that her consistency was just as important and molding yourself into a consistent pitcher is how you are going to get it done at the big levels. 

Come see Sami Potvin and the Habaneros play at ISG Field for the season kirckoff 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.