Canadian softball teammates reunite at NICC

By Kaleigh Tull, NICC work-study student

Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) softball's first recruiting class welcomed student-athletes not only from across the United States, but from across the border in Saskatchewan, Canada, over the last year. Infield duo and longtime friends, Peyton Mengel and Jensen Beaton, committed to the Cougars in 2024. Their history, chemistry and enthusiasm will be assets to the program during their NICC softball careers.

Beaton had first heard about NICC when Head Coach Nick Weinmeister reached out on the recruiting platform Next College Student Athlete (NCSA).

"I was interested in how many programs NICC offers for students to study," Beaton said, "The small campus was comfortable and not overwhelming, which helped."

What sealed the decision for Beaton was the apartment-style housing that College Suites offered on-campus. She said it was unlike anything she's seen at a post-secondary school.

The path that brought Beaton and Mengel together at NICC started unexpectedly.

"It was not in the plans to go to school together," Beaton said. "I was the one to go on the visit first, and Coach Nick had asked if any of my teammates were still looking for schools, so I mentioned Peyton's name."

A short time later, Mengel made her visit, instantly feeling the same connection Beaton did.

"I had visited multiple schools, but nothing clicked until we got to NICC," Mengel said. "It's hard to understand what people mean when they say 'you'll know when it happens' until seeing the amazing school and community around it."

The new training facilities, small campus, close-knit community and friendly environment reminded her of home. Coming from small towns, both players felt comfortable with the familiar atmosphere.

"Moving to a big city was something that intimidated me at the beginning," Mengel said, "but NICC is the perfect size, and the prairie land around it reminds me of home."

The pair believes that having a close friend has made the move smoother.

"Moving so far from home is much easier with a good friend," Beaton said.

The pair's on-field chemistry and positive energy have long been their strengths, traits that began with their time in the Canadian 222's Fastpitch Program, in which both credit for their growth and opportunities.

The Canadian duo looks to bring leadership, teamwork and good chemistry to the field, hoping to make an impact together, just like they always have.