Myrtle Beach, SC, February 18, 2026
News Summary
Brie Normandin, a junior shortstop for Coastal Carolina University, has been recognized as the Sun Belt Conference Player of the Week. Her remarkable week of performance included a .571 batting average, 12 hits, and six RBIs. Normandin’s contributions were pivotal in key matchups, including a significant upset victory against No. 15 Arizona. This recognition not only highlights her individual excellence but also underscores the strong athletic development within Myrtle Beach’s higher education institutions.
Myrtle Beach, SC —
Coastal Carolina Star Honored as Sun Belt Player of the Week
Coastal Carolina University’s Brie Normandin, a junior shortstop, has been recognized as the Sun Belt Conference Player of the Week, marking a significant achievement for both the student-athlete and the university’s esteemed softball program. This recognition highlights the dedication and disciplined performance vital for success in collegiate athletics.
This award not only celebrates individual excellence but also underscores the robust athletic development cultivated within Myrtle Beach’s higher education institutions. Such accolades reflect the commitment to fostering leadership and resilience among students, showcasing how competitive sports contribute to broader community impact and institutional excellence. Normandin’s accomplishment provides a compelling example of how perseverance and skill converge to produce noteworthy outcomes in the challenging landscape of Division I collegiate sports.
Normandin’s Exceptional Week at the Plate and in the Field
Junior shortstop Brie Normandin of the Coastal Carolina softball team was named the Sun Belt Player of the Week for the first time in her career on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. This prestigious recognition celebrates an outstanding week of performance that showcased her offensive power and defensive prowess.
Normandin delivered a remarkable offensive display, achieving a .571 batting average over the week. Her consistent hitting translated into 12 hits and six runs batted in (RBIs), demonstrating her ability to generate offense for the Chanticleers. Such an impressive batting average reflects a high level of discipline and focus, critical attributes for collegiate athletes.
Key Contributions to Team Victories
Normandin’s contributions were pivotal in several key matchups, directly influencing the team’s success. She was instrumental in securing a 6-2 upset win against No. 15 Arizona, driving in three crucial runs. This performance against a nationally ranked opponent highlights her capacity for performing under pressure and making a significant impact when it matters most.
Her offensive momentum continued in a high-scoring 14-13 victory over Drake, where she went 3-for-4 at the plate, contributing two RBI singles. Furthermore, Normandin demonstrated her consistency by going 2-for-2 in the second game against No. 15 Arizona. She concluded her exceptional week with another strong showing against Utah Valley, going 2-for-2 with an RBI single. These consistent performances underscore her critical role in the team’s offensive strategy.
Defensive Excellence and Overall Impact
Beyond her offensive achievements, Normandin also made significant contributions defensively. As a shortstop, she recorded 20 assists and 10 putouts throughout the week, showcasing her reliability and skill in the field. Her defensive actions were crucial in securing key outs, further solidifying her all-around value to the team.
Overall, Normandin recorded four multi-hit games and two multi-RBI games during her award-winning week. This consistent high-level performance across multiple facets of the game exemplifies the dedication and comprehensive skill set expected from top-tier collegiate athletes, reflecting the impact of personal responsibility and diligent training.
The Competitive Landscape of Sun Belt Softball
The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers softball team is a proud member of the Sun Belt Conference, an NCAA Division I conference known for its competitive athletic programs. This conference provides a rigorous environment where student-athletes can test their skills against strong regional opponents, fostering both athletic and personal growth. The Sun Belt Conference regularly features teams and athletes who achieve national recognition, making Normandin’s award a significant benchmark of excellence.
Under the leadership of Head Coach Kelley Green, who completed her 16th season in 2025, the Coastal Carolina softball program has a history of strong performance, including its first-ever Sun Belt Conference Tournament championship in 2025. Coach Green’s guidance emphasizes the discipline and strategic development necessary to compete at this elite level, contributing to the culture of academic and athletic excellence at the university.
Myrtle Beach’s Role in South Carolina Higher Education
Coastal Carolina University’s success in athletics, exemplified by Normandin’s achievement, reflects positively on Myrtle Beach SC college news and the broader landscape of South Carolina higher education. Institutions like Coastal Carolina play a vital role in developing well-rounded individuals who excel both academically and athletically. The commitment to strong athletic programs complements academic rigor, preparing students for leadership roles and impactful contributions to society.
The university’s dedication to fostering talent and providing opportunities for student-athletes contributes to the region’s vibrant educational and economic ecosystem. Achievements such as the Sun Belt Player of the Week award not only bring recognition to the individual and the university but also inspire future generations of students to pursue excellence in their chosen fields.
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Batting Average | .571 |
| Total Hits | 12 |
| Runs Batted In (RBIs) | 6 |
| Multi-Hit Games | 4 |
| Multi-RBI Games | 2 |
| Defensive Assists | 20 |
| Defensive Putouts | 10 |
The recognition of Brie Normandin as the Sun Belt Player of the Week underscores the excellence fostered at Coastal Carolina University. This achievement not only celebrates her individual talent and relentless effort but also highlights the university’s commitment to developing student-athletes who embody discipline, leadership, and personal responsibility. For those interested in collegiate sports and academic achievement in the region, staying informed about University of South Carolina and other local institutions’ news offers valuable insights into the growth and impact of South Carolina higher education. We encourage readers to follow the Chanticleers and other local university programs for more updates on inspiring student achievements and campus events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who was named Sun Belt Player of the Week for softball?
A: Coastal Carolina junior shortstop Brie Normandin was named Sun Belt Player of the Week for softball.
Q: What were Brie Normandin’s key statistics for the week?
A: Brie Normandin recorded a .571 batting average, 12 hits, and 6 RBIs.
Q: Which university does Brie Normandin attend?
A: Brie Normandin attends Coastal Carolina University.
Q: When was Brie Normandin named Sun Belt Player of the Week?
A: Brie Normandin was named Sun Belt Player of the Week on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
Q: What were some of Brie Normandin’s defensive contributions?
A: Brie Normandin recorded 20 assists and 10 putouts defensively during the week.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Myrtle Beach Celebrates Girls & Women in Sports
Scholars Academy High Achieves Palmetto’s Finest Finalist Status
New Region Assignments Announced for South Carolina High Schools
Winter Bump Volleyball Wraps Up, Boosting Myrtle Beach Spirit
Chanticleer Star Reaches 1,000 Career Points
Collaborative Efforts in Myrtle Beach to Expand Educational Pathways
Myrtle Beach Reassesses Tourism Policies Along Ocean Boulevard
Myrtle Beach High Fined for Eligibility Violations
Local Gold Dealer Connects Youth with Global Initiatives
Alumni Leadership Propels Coastal Softball Program Forward
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
