When you hear "Stetson," you might think of Texas—the iconic hat brand that's become synonymous with the Lone Star State. But in the world of college sports, Stetson University is making a name for itself in a very different part of the country: sunny Florida. And if you haven't been paying attention to the Hatters' softball team, now's the time to start.

Stetson delivered the first major upset of the 2026 NCAA Softball Tournament on May 15, taking down No. 9 national seed Florida State in an impressive 8-3 victory. The game, played at JoAnne Graf Field in Tallahassee, marked a historic moment for the program. Left fielder Amber Chumley was the star of the show, going 3-for-4 at the plate with four RBIs—including a three-run homer in the top of the third inning that put the Hatters in control.

This win wasn't just another game on the schedule. It was only the second time the ASUN conference champion has beaten Florida State, and the first since 1987. It also snapped a trend: entering the tournament, only two national seeds had lost their first regional game in the last 20 years. Stetson added a third to that list, and they did it in style.

For the Hatters, this is just their second postseason win in program history. They're making their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2014, and they're not done yet. By advancing to the winner's bracket, Stetson avoided elimination and earned a shot at the winner of Jacksonville State vs. UCF on May 16 at noon ET.

So, where exactly is Stetson University? Despite the name that might make you think of cowboy hats, the Hatters call DeLand, Florida, home. It's about an hour north of Orlando and a four-hour drive southeast of Tallahassee. Stetson has been a member of the Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) since 1985, and they're proving that this small Florida school can make a big splash on the national stage.

Whether you're a die-hard softball fan or just love a good underdog story, the Hatters are a team to watch. And if you're looking to gear up for tournament season, there's no better time to show your support for the teams that defy the odds.