By: Trevor Jones 

The defending champions, the Mankato Habaneros, are turning up the heat once again as we officially welcome back Emma Lee [Trine University] for another season! A key piece of last year’s championship run, Emma’s skill, leadership, and relentless drive make her a force to be reckoned with. 

I asked Emma if her preparations at Trine University would differ from getting ready for another season with the Mankato Habaneros. She explained that playing collegiate softball has been very helpful in preparing her for the Northwoods League. The high level of competition at Trine gives her confidence, knowing that the skills and hard work she’s put in at the college level translate well when stepping onto the field in the Northwoods League.  

Emma Lee, a returning player for the Mankato Habaneros, shared her thoughts on what skill set makes her stand out. Last year’s Teammate of the Year, Emma responded, “I feel like the immediate thing people notice about me is that I’m a good teammate, and that is not going to change.” 

Her response speaks volumes about her character and leadership and the qualities that make her an invaluable part of the Habaneros as they look to defend their title. 

Last season, Lee put up an impressive stat line, hitting .327 with 35 hits, 25 RBIs, and a team-leading four triples. Her consistency carries over to Trine University, where she hit .333 with 45 hits and 35 RBIs, a testament to her reliability at the plate. 

Looking ahead, Emma wants the new members of the Habaneros to understand the responsibility that comes with being defending champions. “We have a title to protect, and we’re not settling for anything less,” she emphasized. She also stressed that the upcoming season won’t be handed to them—success will require a week-by-week approach and relentless effort. “Being a champion means getting everyone’s best punch, so we have to be ready.” 

Come see Emma 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.