Rawlings Announces Gold Glove Expansion; Award Now to be Presented Across Multiple Levels of College Softball

Rawlings Gold Glove awards were handed out to college softball players for the first time ever in 2022. Now the company is expanding the award to new levels.

In the inaugural presentation, Gold Gloves were awarded to the best defenders at each defensive position in Division 1. Players including Northwestern catcher Jordyn Rudd and Florida second baseman Hannah Adams were among the recipients following the 2022 college softball season.

Announced on Monday, Gold Gloves will be awarded to stellar defenders at multiple levels of college softball beginning in 2023.

In addition to Division 1 athletes, Gold Gloves will be presented to athletes from Division II, Division III, and NAIA, as well as NJCAA Divisions I, II, and III, the California Community College Athletic Association, and Northwest Athletic Association.

Julie Tobyansen, the softball sport marketing manager for Rawlings, said in a statement:

“We believe in honoring the women who are growing the game of softball through their excellent defensive play and work ethic. We want to recognize the talented women playing at all collegiate levels who are worthy and deserving of the honor associated with being a Rawlings Gold Glover.”

For the inaugural D1 Gold Gloves, the award’s winners were decided on by the NFCA’s D1 All-American committee. The NFCA will facilitate selecting the award’s winners in each of the multiple levels that are now eligible.