Among the Best
SDSU Softball has been building one of the most competitive programs in the country, not by outspending opponents, but by outworking them and investing deeply. in culture.
Last season, they finished 29th nationally out of nearly 300 Division I programs, sold out games against powerhouses like Oklahoma and UCLA, and proved they belong on the biggest stages.
The fans are enthusiastic at SDSU softball games. Credit: San Diego State Athletics
Growing Fan Base
From packed stands to sellout games, matchups against national contenders have created demand so strong that extra seating is now part of the game day experience.
Sellouts, temporary seating, and national recognition aren’t the goal. They’re the result.
Leadership
At the center of this powerful program is head coach Stacey Nuveman-Deniz, now in her fifth season leading the program after 13 years as an assistant.
Since stepping into the role, the Aztecs have won the Mountain West championship every season, setting a standard built on consistency, trust, and sustained success. A two-time Mountain West Coach of the Year, Nuveman-Deniz continues to push the program forward.
World Class Legacy
Stacey Nuveman-Deniz brings elite international experience to the dugout. A three-time U.S. Olympian with two gold medals and a silver, she has helped Team USA capture a World Cup title, two World Championships, and two Pan American gold medals. In recognition of her leadership, she was named to the USA Softball Assistant Coaching Pool from 2025–28.
Culture drives success. Credit: San Diego State Athletics
Solidifying Culture
As Nuveman-Deniz leads Aztec softball, she explained how success starts long before game day. It's trust built behind the scenes that ultimately shows up in championship moments. As she pointed to the team locker room, she emphasized, "That's our clubhouse. That's where the magic happens. That's where the hard stuff happens and then we come out here and the softball takes care of itself."
Why It Works
Players are drawn to SDSU for more than wins. The program prides itself on developing people first. As assistant coach Curly Grimes put it, “That’s our main goal. We want to develop humans.” That culture has become a draw for athletes, including transfers from larger programs who rediscover their love for the game at SDSU.
Eyes on the Prize
As SDSU Softball enters a pivotal season, there’s both urgency and belief. This is the program’s final year in the Mountain West, and the goals are clear.
“We’re always trying to win a Mountain West championship,” Nuveman-Deniz said, while also noting something deeper.
“This team is very focused on getting to the Women’s College World Series... and it's not easy, but they're motivated. And I feel like, yeah, if any team could do it, it's this one."
