Lincoln-Way West softball head coach Heather Novak and the Warriors are preparing for another promising season, with a strong core of juniors and experienced varsity players returning to the team.
According to Novak, leading the way is junior shortstop and pitcher Reese Rourke, recognized as one of the top players in the state and a two-time First Team All-State selection. Rourke has verbally committed to North Carolina State University. Last season, she set multiple program records, including single-season batting average (.505), home runs (15), and total bases (117). She also led the team in wins as a pitcher, achieving a 14-7 record with 85 strikeouts and a 3.11 ERA.
“Reese is a fierce competitor and a leader on and off the field,” Novak said. “She continues to elevate her game, and we’re excited to see what she accomplishes this season.”
The Warriors also return two other All-State selections: junior third baseman Molly Finn and junior second baseman Reese Cusack. Finn, who has committed to Valparaiso University, hit .490 last season with 50 hits and 34 RBIs. Cusack batted .458 with seven home runs and a .781 slugging percentage.
Additional returning varsity players include juniors Abby Brueggmann, Reese Forsythe, Jess Noga, and Paige Seivert, who has committed to the Milwaukee School of Engineering. Sophomore Kaylea Armstrong and senior Madi Lukasik, a Northwest Missouri State commit, will also play key roles.
Novak believes that with such a deep and talented roster, the Warriors have the potential for another successful season. “This group has a lot of experience, and they know what it takes to compete at a high level,” she said. “We’re looking forward to seeing them continue to grow and make an impact.”