Tony Baranek

St. Laurence coach doesn't have to worry about upsetting senior second baseman when she bats her ninth in the order. In fact, it's quite the opposite.

Marist sophomore is the Dancing Queen of the team. Whether it's in the huddles, in the dugout or in center field, whenever she gets a chance, she'll be having the time of her life.

To say that Friday was the happiest day in the softball life of Lincoln-Way West's would not be an understatement.

It was so fitting that it ended with a strikeout. There had been so many before it. And this time, junior right-hander was able to finish what she started for Marist.

PEORIA — Some of it was sweat. But there were also some noticeable tears.

PEORIA — Sometimes, the hits just don't fall. And they didn't Friday for Marist junior

Lexi Kyros makes several strong defensive plays, but Marist drops 2-1 decision to Lincoln-Way West in Class 4A state semifinals.

PEORIA — By any measure, Lincoln-Way West senior had all the angles covered. With two swings, the Milwaukee School of Engineering commit drove in the first three runs.

Nine players from Class 4A state champion Lincoln-Way West and 4A third-place Marist highlight first two teams. First Team

Angelina Cole, the 2026 Daily Southtown Softball Player of the Year, wraps up historic career by hitting 14 homers for Providence.