It may have taken the fall semester for Stephanie Tofft to get used to playing college softball, but she has been on a tear ever since.

Tofft currently sits on a 27-game hitting streak that began on March 4 in the first game of the Colorado State Classic.

The 24-year record stood at 15 games, until Tofft took a single to right field against Eastern Michigan on April 1.

“Coming into this season, we knew Steph was talented, but I don’t think anyone was expecting to have this much of a standout season as a freshman,” said senior Zoe Sinner. “Just working with her throughout preseason, it’s really exciting to see her succeed and be one of our go-to players in situations.”

Sinner, who plays right field, has become a mentor to Tofft and is her throwing partner.

Tofft came to NIU not knowing exactly what roster position she would fill. Listed as a utility player, she has seen extensive time in right field, but as of late has spent time on the mound. In nine innings of work, Tofft holds a 3.11 ERA, allowing four earned runs and seven hits, while striking out six.

The Lincoln, Calif. native decided to make the long trip to the Midwest because she said she enjoyed the coaches and the school. With three other Golden State teammates, Tofft has found camaraderie reminiscent of home, though she said she is the only one from the northern part of the state.

Growing up in constant warm weather, Tofft said, helped her develop softball skills and stay consistent throughout the year. The weather in DeKalb is a little rougher.

“It’s a lot colder here,” she said. “Beside that, not getting practice outside all year long makes a little bit of a difference. The Midwest teams take a bit longer to get used to playing on the dirt again after practicing inside all the time.”

Tofft’s competitive drive convinced her parents to put her in a sport at age 7.

“My parents decided I needed to do something because it was super frustrating for me,” she said. “I was competitive in grade school. [I] still am.”

Her desire to win has helped the Huskies to an 18-19 overall record, with a MAC West leading 8-3 record.

Earlier in the season, Tofft said her goal was to stay consistent. With a 27-game hitting streak already on the books, it is safe to say she is achieving.

“I didn’t know what kind of an impact I was going to make,” Tofft said. “Honestly, I thought, do my best, and as long as I’m playing, I’m happy.'”