Written by Hayden McLaughlin
The Algona Bulldogs’ softball team had a very successful 2026 season. They ended with an overall record of 23-7. They made it to their second straight regional final. The Bulldogs also were co-Conference champions with Clear Lake. Sadly, their season ended in a heartbreaking 2-0 loss to PCM.
The Bulldogs had many highlights throughout the season. One of the most memorable moments for the Bulldogs was a Conference championship. Coach VanOtterloo led the team to its first Conference championship since 1989. Junior, BellaJo Dunning, said, “My favorite memory from this season is being Conference champs and beating St. Eds on their home turf #I’llMissCoachVO.” The Bulldogs secured a share in the Conference title pulling an upset at the St. Eds ballpark.
Many Bulldogs received post season honors. First baseman, Makenna Elsbecker, was selected as a third team All Conference member. The sophomore had 149 put outs. Bulldogs Emma Spear and Jillian Burns were selected as second team All Conference members. Second baseman, Spear, ended with 26 hits and 15 RBIs. Burns had 33 hits and a .371 batting average. Junior Maya Lentz was selected as first team All Conference. Lentz had a combined 72 putouts and assists. Catcher Reagan Haynes brought in many awards. She was selected 1st team All Conference, 3A Central All District, and 1st team All State. Haynes led the team with 7 home runs and a .651 batting average. Senior Alison Trunkhill was selected as 1st team All Conference, 3A Central All District, and 2nd team All-State. The senior pitcher had 148 strikeouts.
The Algona Bulldogs were led by their two seniors, Alison Trunkhill and Jillian Burns. Alison Trunkhill led the Bulldog squad as a pitcher for the past two years. They will look to find a new pitcher and left fielder in the 2027 season. Coach VanOtterloo will be resigning from the head coach position this year. He has led the Bulldogs to many successful seasons since 2020, including a State tournament appearance in the 2020 season. The Bulldogs will be returning a core group of seniors next year. The 2027 season looks to be another successful year!