Article updated: 6/7/2012 10:01 PM

Elk Grove takes aims downstate

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Elk Grove third baseman Carly Danek catches a popup on the infield as pitcher Dani Goranson backs her up on the play during Saturday's Barrington sectional final against Conant.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

Elk Grove's Devan Parkison, right, is greeted at the plate by her teammates after her eighth-inning home run gave the Grens the lead over Conant during Saturday's sectional final at Barrington.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

Elk Grove pitcher Dani Goranson delivers to Conant's Briana Cavin during Saturday's sectional final at Barrington.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

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Elk Grove's Elisa Payne moves to her right to make a catch in center field during Saturday's Barrington sectional final against Conant.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

Elk Grove pitcher Dani Goranson, right, celebrates with her teammates after getting the final out during Saturday's sectional final win against Conant at Barrington.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

About this Article

He has been running the show for 32 seasons but hall of fame coach Ken Grams will be the first to tell you it's about the kids. The kids, however, are saying this one is for the coach. All-state pitcher Dani Goranson and the Elk Grove Grenadiers would love to play in an Class 4A state softball championship game for their dedicated mentor of four decades. First, however, they are focused on today's semifinal opponent from the East Suburban Catholic Conference. Marist (25-15) and Elk Grove (31-8) will be meeting for the first time in Grams' 32 seasons when they face off in at 2:30 p.m. semifinal at the Eastside Centre in East Peoria. The other semifinal at 5 p.m. features Bartlett (31-8) and defending 4A champ Moline (30-10).