News
Luna Community Athletics Celebrates Historic 2026 Seasons for Rough Rider Baseball and Softball
News Release
Las Vegas, NM — Luna Community College is celebrating a milestone year for Rough Rider Athletics following standout 2026 seasons by both the baseball and softball programs, highlighted by postseason appearances, school records, and strong performances in NJCAA Region 9 competition.
The Rough Rider baseball team under the direction of head coach Erick Wright, closed out the regular season with momentum after defeating Trinidad State College in back-to-back games on Saturday, May 2, to secure a postseason berth in the Region 9 playoffs in Pueblo, Colorado. After beginning conference play near the bottom of the standings, the Rough Riders surged into playoff contention and ultimately finished sixth. Throughout the season, Luna showcased consistent offensive production, recording more than 500 hits while
demonstrating power at the plate with numerous extra-base hits and home runs. In addition to qualifying for postseason play, the Rough Rider baseball program earned regional recognition with three student-athletes named Second Team All-Conference, while 16 baseball student-athletes graduating in the academic year, reflecting the program’s commitment to success both on the field and in the classroom.
“I’m proud of the players and the legacy they started from this past season to being the first Luna baseball team to make the playoffs.” said Coach Erick Wright. “This also marks the fifth consecutive semester that baseball student-athletes achieved a team GPA above 3.0.” said Coach Erick Wright.
Luna baseball continues to show growth and competitiveness throughout the year, representing the college and Northern New Mexico with determination and resilience on the field, and in the classroom.
The Rough Rider softball team delivered the strongest season in program history, advancing to the Region 9 Tournament held May 7–9 in McCook, Nebraska. Luna entered postseason play as the No. 5 seed and opened tournament competition against fourth-seeded Western Nebraska Community College.
The team concluded the season with a school-record 25 wins and achieved another program milestone by finishing conference play at 17-17. Luna also finished fourth overall in the conference standings among nine Region 9 institutions and advanced to the tournament semifinals before being eliminated by Northeastern Junior College.
Throughout the 2026 season, the Luna Rough Rider softball team established multiple program records and emerged as one of the top offensive teams in Region 9. Luna led the conference in hits with 606, doubles with 121, and home runs with 73, four conference sweeps, and the most shutouts in program history. The Rough Riders remained competitive throughout conference play and battled for postseason positioning late into the season.
Softball Head Coach and Athletic Director Randy Krutsch praised the team’s historic season and the culture built throughout the year.
“We should be very proud of what these student-athletes accomplished this season,” said Krutsch. “They represented Luna Community College and our community extremely well throughout the year, both competitively and academically. This group set a new standard for our program, and we are already looking forward to building on that momentum next season.”
During the final regular season home series on May 2 and 3 against nationally ranked Southeast Community College, Luna hosted Sophomore Day celebrations recognizing graduating softball student-athletes, with President Dr. Carol Linder throwing out the ceremonial first pitch prior to the May 2 matchup against the No. 2-ranked team in the region. President Linder also participated in a special on-field recognition ceremony at home plate, where six student-athletes wore commencement gowns and were individually recognized for their academic accomplishments while balancing the demands of collegiate athletics. Because of the regional playoff schedule, the graduating sophomores missed
Luna’s May 9 commencement ceremony.
“The accomplishments of our Rough Rider softball and baseball teams this season reflect the hard work, discipline, and determination of our student-athletes and coaches,” said Carol Linder. “These teams represented Luna Community College and Northern New Mexico with pride, resilience, and sportsmanship both on and off the field. We are incredibly proud of what they achieved this year and excited about the future of Rough Rider Athletics.”
Luna Community College Athletics continues to build strong athletic and academic programs focused on student success, leadership, and opportunity while proudly representing Northern New Mexico across regional competition. Of the college’s 50 student-athletes, 44 are from New Mexico, reflecting Luna’s continued commitment to developing local talent and creating opportunities for students across the state. The athletics department also achieved a 100% graduation rate among graduating student-athletes this academic year and is projected to set another school record with more than 22 Academic AllRegion student-athletes, surpassing last year’s total of 16. Beyond competition and academics, Luna student-athletes also contributed more than 550 hours of community service throughout the year in support of the Las Vegas community.