Courtesy of Howard University Athletic Media Relations


WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Howard University junior infielder Kalita Dennis has been named to the 2021 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year Top 50 "Watch List," the organization announced Wednesday. 

Dennis, a two-time ALL-MEAC Team selection, a two-time All-MEAC team, finished the abbreviated 2020 season with a team-high .382 batting average, 29 hits, five home runs, 22 RBIs, and finished second with 17 runs. In 72 games, Dennis has recorded 13 home runs, 91 hits, 59 runs, 57 RBIs, 21 doubles, and a .401 batting average. 

The preseason "Watch List" includes 11 seniors, 15 juniors, and five sophomores, with freshman ineligible for consideration. (Freshman can be considered for the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year award once they have competed at the collegiate level). Athletes named to the "Watch List" represent 28 NCAA Division I universities and 13 athletic conferences. Dennis's second consecutive season is on the watch list, a first in the MEAC, and the only player featured from an HBCUs.

"I feel like I'm a broken record, but Kalita Dennis epitomizes excellence. She is a leader in the classroom and on the field and one of the hardest working athletes I've come across. This is another incredible honor for an incredible young woman! Her being recognized on such a prestigious list among the nations best only confirms how much you can do and accomplish at Howard..." head softball coach Tori Tyson said. "She represents our university, conference, and HBCUs so well, and I can't wait to continue to watch her blossom."

The Top 25 Finalists for the 2021 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year award will be announced on April 21. While an athlete does not have to be on the "Watch List" to be considered for the Top 25, the eventual USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year will come from the Top 25 Finalists. The Top 10 Finalists will be announced May 5, and the Top 3 announced May 19. The 2021 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year will be revealed on June 1.

The first pitch of the 2021 season for the Bison is scheduled on February 14 versus George Washington at National Youth Academy.