Portland Softball Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2026 Inductees

The Portland Softball Hall of Fame will welcome two standout figures this spring as Patti Beard and Sarah Johnson have been selected as members of the Class of 2026.

Established in 2019, the Portland Softball Hall of Fame recognizes players, coaches, teams and contributors who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and made a lasting impact on the program.

Patti Beard, a 1998 graduate, was a four-year varsity starter at catcher from 1995–1998. She earned All-Conference honors each season, was named All-District three times, and received both All-Region and All-State recognition as a junior and senior.

Known for her toughness, competitive drive and high softball IQ, Beard was a commanding presence behind the plate. She threw out 107 runners during her high school career, including 20 pickoffs at first base in her senior season alone. Her defensive leadership and powerful arm made her one of the most formidable catchers in program history.

Beard continued her playing career at Lansing Community College, where she competed in the National Junior College World Series and earned All-Conference, All-Region and All-Tournament honors.

Her impact on Portland softball extended well beyond her playing days. Beard returned to the program as a varsity assistant coach in 2001 and has dedicated 25 years to mentoring student-athletes and strengthening the tradition of Portland softball.

Sarah Johnson, a 2006 graduate, is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished players in school history. A four-year varsity starter at third base from 2003–2006, she earned All-Conference honors each season, including First Team recognition as a sophomore, junior and senior.

Johnson was voted Outstanding Offensive Player for three consecutive years, served as team captain during her junior and senior seasons, and was named Team MVP as a senior. She was also selected to the Lansing State Journal Dream Team and earned All-State First Team honors three times.

A dominant presence both defensively and offensively, Johnson combined a strong arm and exceptional glove work with powerful hitting. She finished her career with a .379 batting average and hit .473 as a senior. She set school records for single-season home runs and RBIs, along with career hits — marks that still stand.

Johnson went on to continue her softball career at Alma College, helping lead the Scots to multiple conference championships and four NCAA Tournament appearances.

Beard and Johnson will be formally inducted during a ceremony at the Spring Sports Carnival on Saturday, May 2. Their introduction and plaque unveiling will take place following the second round of games, approximately between 1:30 and 2 p.m.

The induction will celebrate not only their individual accomplishments, but also their lasting contributions to the proud tradition of Portland softball.

Courtesy photos.