Softball: Northwest all-area team

Jessica Balzano Elk Grove

Balzano has produced probably the best offensive year in school history. She set records for average (.577), on-base percentage (.626) and hits (73). She also led the team in runs (50), extra-base hits and was second in RBI (35). "Jessica is, plain and simply, a hitter, without a doubt," said coach Ken Grams. "She has a great deal of pride in what she does when it comes to working hard at this skill. Her success has not come by chance. She is constantly practicing and developing. It's a pleasure to watch her work."

Allie Bauch Conant

Bauch, a three-sport athlete who loves to compete, definitely showed it this spring. She started at shortstop in all 33 games and led the Cougars with a batting average of .435 and a slugging percentage of .657. She also paced the Cougars in singles (33), triples (4) and stolen bases (15). "Allie is so versatile for us in the batter's box because she is able to slap or bunt for a hit as well as hit some over the fence (3 home runs)," said coach Cathy Smith. " Defensively, Allie has great range and determination to stop anything that comes her way. It will be exciting to watch her continue to excel over the next two years."

Alyssa Bojarski Maine West

As the Maine West leadoff hitter for most of the season, Bojarski set the tone for the offense. The sophomore can bunt, drag, and hit for power. She batted .390 and led the team with 41 hits in 33 games, posting 15 multi-hit games. Bojarski also had 5 doubles and 3 triples. She was 7-for-7 in stolen base attempts. "It was only her second full year of batting left-handed," said coach Mike Murin. "And Alyssa has made tremendous strides to improve her contact rate. She was willing to do whatever was necessary for the good of the team, leading by example in practice and on the diamond." Bojarski's athleticism enabled her to play multiple positions (pitcher, first base, outfield).

Briana Cavin Conant

Only a sophomore, Cavin was a force for Conant both on the pitcher's mound and in the batter's box. "It is a pleasure to watch Bri compete in every game she plays," said coach Cathy Smith. "She has the heart, determination and work ethic that all coaches dream of having in his or her veteran players, much less a sophomore." Cavin batted .395 with an on-base percentage of .442 and 33 runs. She recorded 179 strikeouts and only 39 walks in 165 innings. "As a leadoff hitter she sparked our offense often by getting on base with a slap single, or hard-hit double or triple," Smith added. "She is a two-time all-conference recipient and will continue to be a strong and smart player for us for the next two years."

Alexa Cinquegrani Fremd

In a Mid-Suburban League championship season, Cinquegrani was one of the key offensive components who helped lead the Vikings to their first crown since 2001. The senior right fielder batted .413 with 24 runs, 9 doubles, 2 triples and 4 homers. She collected 40 RBI for the Class 4A Final Four qualifiers. "Alexa is another top hitter on our team," said coach Jim Weaver. "She really dedicated herself to make the most of her senior year and she has crushed the ball all season. She has a high average and great power to all fields."

Kiley Dolezal Barrington

A two-year varsity player, Dolezal went 29-6 on the mound her junior season with 7 shutouts, 184 strikeouts, 41 walks and a 1.69 ERA for the Mid-Suburban West runner-up. Her 29 wins tied her for fourth on the school's all-time list behind all-time leader Claire Voris, who had 36 in 2007. Dolezal also batted .349 with 22 hits, 2 doubles and 9 RBI. "Kiley's desire to lead her teammates from the pitcher's mound was certainly evident this season," said coach Perry Peterson. "Her passion to make improvements toward her game displays her commitment to this sport. She continues to improve every day and her best still lies ahead of her."

Andrea DiPrima Buffalo Grove

Already committed to play for Northwestern, DiPrima continued to show why she is a Division I prospect. The three-time all-area selection and junior set single-season school records for average (.583), hits (67), homers (10), RBI (43) and extra-base hits (29) and had 16 doubles and 33 runs. "Andrea has gotten better and better every year," said coach Laura Stock. DiPrima also has the single-season doubles record (23). "With Andrea in the lineup, there are always run-scoring possibilities," Stock said. "She is hands down the best hitter in BG history."

KC Dunne Buffalo Grove

One of the top leadoff hitters in the state, Dunne struck out only four times all season. The Western Illinois recruit still has another season of high school softball remaining after batting .426 with 55 hits, 41 runs, 4 homers, 2 triples, 4 doubles and 16 RBI. She had an on-base percentage of .471. " KC is a three-year varsity starter who has played shortstop, catcher and centerfield," said coach Laura Stock of the three-sport athlete (basketball and golf). "She is a great catalyst as our leadoff hitter and she proves to be a tough out." She also stole 11 bases prior to a mid-season hip injury, her 41 runs places her second on BG's all-time list and she has the third-highest all-time season hit total at 62 (2009).

Allie Gaeding Fremd

Offensively and defensively, Gaeding made things happen for Fremd. She hit .427 with 32 runs and the slick-fielding shortstop swiped 21 bases. While batting from the No. 2 spot, she was 19-of-24 in sacrifice situations. "Allie is the middle of our defense," said coach Jim Weaver. "Her range and arm strength are amazing and she is quickly turning into the top defensive shortstop in Fremd history. Also, her offensive numbers are tremendous for her first season as a slapper."

Dani Goranson Elk Grove

Goranson showed she could succeed on the pitcher's mound, in the infield and in the batter's box. "Dani is an extremely well-rounded softball player," said coach Ken Grams. "She possesses the many skills it takes to play the game at a high level," She was 18-2 on the mound with 174 strikeouts, 30 walks and a 1.04 ERA heading into supersectional play. "As a power-type pitcher, she most certainly has displayed that she can pitch with the best," Grams said. "She has developed an assortment of pitches that she is able to use effectively depending on the situation and opponent." Goranson batted .336 with 19 RBI and 3 homers.

Joanne Jablonski Palatine

A two-time all-area selection, Jablonski is a three-year varsity starter who will be a valuable returning player for the 2011 season. This spring, the center fielder hit .354 with a team-high 4 homers and .575 slugging percentages. She also collected 9 doubles, 2 triples and 32 RBI. "Jo is a tireless worker who puts all of her effort into every practice and game," said coach Jeff Manz. "She has a great combination of power and speed. I am looking forward to having her back next season."

Alyssa Lancaster Schaumburg

In her first season as the Saxons' ace, Lancaster came through in superb fashion. "What a year she had," said coach Erin Malinowski, who watched the sophomore right-hander win 21 games with an ERA of 1.84. "Alyssa's composure and presence on the mound was so impressive. Alyssa is more than just a pitcher out there. She is athletic and fields her position as well as any pitcher I've seen. Alyssa has an intensity and drive to succeed that motivated the rest of our team on a daily basis." Lancaster was even more impressive with her hitting. She collected a school-record 72 hits, batting .550 with 13 doubles and 2 triples.

Brianne Lingl Schaumburg

While her natural position is catcher, Lingl has started three years on the varsity at different positions. "She had a tremendous season at second base this year," said coach Erin Malinowski "Brianne is a catcher, but she plays her heart out wherever we ask her to play. Without her athleticism and ability to play the field, we would not have been nearly as successful as we were this season." Lingl hit .370 with 44 hits this spring and had 13 doubles and 26 RBI. "Bri challenges herself to learn and to improve every day no matter where she is on the field," Malinowski said.

Maryclare Loughery Rolling Meadows

Loughery was one of the best hitters in the state and proved it by putting her name in the IHSA record book with a 34-game hitting streak. A four-year varsity starter, Loughery set school records for most hits (51) and runs (34) in a season. She batted .468 with 29 RBI. "She is also one of the best defensive players in the conference," said coach Tony Wolanski. " Maryclare had a great four years and finished it off with a great senior year. She improved every season and will be very hard to replace next season."

Hanna Lythberg Prospect

The sophomore right-hander was instrumental to Prospect's diamond success. "If she wasn't the driving force on the mound she always contributed defensively," said coach Brenda Martin. "Hanna is a rare player because she can play just about any position. Offensively, she lead the team with her .336 batting average (14 RBI) and made some big hits when we needed them. Hanna will continue to lead this group as they are young but talented."

Stephanie Maday Elk Grove

One of the finest pitchers in program history, Maday (17-2) sports an ERA of 0.95 with 150 strikeouts and only 23 walks. "Stephanie has represented her sport, her school, and her team in as positive a manner as any coach or anyone could hope for," said coach Ken Grams. "She is simply an outstanding young person and leader who has competed at a top level for four years. Her statistics and accomplishments during her four years of varsity softball speak for themselves; but beyond that, she displays an attitude and demeanor that stands above most. She is a very special softball player, individual and a great teammate."

Morgan Maize Leyden

She may have only been a sophomore, but Maize was a real puzzle for opposing batters. She recorded a school-record 22 victories against only 4 losses, striking out 217 batters while only walking 14. Offensively, her bat helped Leyden win many games. She belted 4 home runs and collected 52 RBI from the cleanup spot. "Morgan is becoming both an academic and athletic pillar of success for Leyden," said coach Kurt Schuett. "She had drawn attention from a handful of NCAA Division I programs coupled with amazing high school grades, so I'm sure that Morgan's softball future is bright." Maize is the only non-senior ace in the West Suburban Gold.

Amanda Mlikan Prospect

A co-captain, Mlikan helped create "sisterhood" on the team, according to coach Brenda Martin. "Amanda was a very consistent player in left field this year," Martin said. "Offensively, she did a great job as well. Amanda has excellent fundamental skills for the outfield. We enjoy having her on our team. We wish her the best playing in college." Mlikan (.327) led the Knights with 31 hits and 19 RBI this spring.

Katie Mnichowicz Palatine

The speedy Mnichowicz jump-started many Pirates rallies. A three-year varsity starter (the last two at shortstop), she led them with her .383 average, 49 hits, 27 stolen bases and on-base percentage (.436). "When Katie got on base she put a lot of pressure on defenses because of her speed," said coach Jeff Manz. "She is a very good athlete who made many outstanding plays on defense because of her aggressiveness and quickness. She is a very hard worker and is always trying to get better. She did a great job communicating and taking charge of the infield."

Elizabeth Owen Barrington

Owen showed great improvement this spring, hitting .358 with 43 hits, 35 RBI, 8 doubles, 3 home runs and a .421 average with runners in scoring position. "From the outfield, Elizabeth displayed a strong arm and remarkable improvement during her junior season," said coach Perry Peterson. Owen committed only 1 error in 35 games this season. "Elizabeth's focus on the game of softball launched her performance to a new level," Peterson said. "Her clutch hits led to many team victories and her aggressive play in the outfield provided our team with the neccessary consistency to succeed in pressure moments."

Devan Parkison Elk Grove

Only a sophomore, Parkison made a big impact as she batted .411 with a team-high 36 RBI, 29 runs and 2 home runs. "Devan is continuing to develop and grow as a softball player as her confidence is increasing," said coach Ken Grams. "She was a very important part of the team's offensive production this season." Parkison produced the second-highest number of hits and the third-most runs. "Her defensive skills have made consistent progress and her understanding and knowledge of the game have added to her level of play," Grams added. "She realizes what it takes to improve and most definitely applies that approach to her work ethic."

Aly Poehlmann Schaumburg

A four-year varsity catcher, Poehlmann enjoyed a stellar final season with her .346 average. "Aly had another great season." said coach Erin Malinowski. "She has been a solid and consistent player who really took on a leadership role from behind the plate this year." Poehlmann set the school record for career hits with 130. "She has been the rock of this team for the last four years," Malinowski said. "She's one of only a few players who are four-year varsity starters. Aly has a ton of enthusiasm and positive energy."

Olivia Roback Elk Grove

Roback, who batted .405 with 8 homers and 34 RBI, is enjoying one of the finest four-year careers in Elk Grove softball history. "She has been an incredibly vital part of the program during that time, playing an important position while also hitting in the middle of the line-up," said coach Ken Grams. Roback is among the school's career leaders in many offensive categories, including hits, runs, extra-base hits, RBI and home runs. She has started 148 games at shortstop, playing in more games and being involved in more victories (128) than any other player in school history. "Above all, it is her presence on the field that identifies her best," Grams said. "She plays a demanding and responsible position at a high level. Her awareness and decision-making are remarkably consistent and among the best that we have had here."

Sam Salomone Palatine

While she sang some excellent renditions of the national anthem prior to games, Salomone was also right on tune with her bat. A two-year varsity starter in right field, the Pirates' No. 3 hitter hit .363 and led the team in RBI (single-season school record 40) and doubles (10) and was second in runs (28). "Sam is a very coachable kid who has a great eye at the plate," said coach Jeff Manz. "She was our best contact hitter all season. She always has a positive attitude and was a pleasure to work with all season."

Jenny Schneider Fremd

From her game-winning walk-off double against Barrington in the 2009 state playoffs to her 2 homer game earlier this season, Schneider has been a basehit machine for the Vikings. She is batting .413 with 45 hits, 31 runs, 6 doubles, 3 home runs and 35 RBI. "Jenny is a top contact hitter in the middle of our lineup," said Fremd coach Jim Weaver. "She loves to hit in RBI situations and thrives on the pressure when batting. She is probably our top vocal leader in terms of keeping the team running smoothly."

Colleen Shandley Barrington

Nobody collected more hits in a single season for Barrington than Shandley did this spring. And coach Perry Peterson has the three-year starter back for one more season. Shandley batted a team-high .572 with 72 hits, 45 runs and 10 RBI. She broke the single-season steal record (32) in n 37 attempts, hit safely in 35 of 38 games and hit a single-season best .532 with runners in scoring position (.532). "Colleen is the catalyst that makes our offense go and go and go," Peterson said. "She ignited many rallies for us."

Kiersten Tinkoff Barrington

A three-year starter at first base, Tinkoff was ever so reliable with her glove and bat. The junior enjoyed a terrific offensive season by hitting .412 from the No. 3 spot in the order. She had 49 hits, 13 doubles, 1 triple and 4 home runs along with a team-high 38 RBI and .639 slugging percentage. Defensively, she completed 303 of 307 chances for a .987 percentage. "Kiersten's ability to make her teammates better with her range and catching ability made a huge difference in our infield ," said Barrington coach Perry Peterson. "Her ability to change the game with one swing of the bat was momumental to our team success."

Julie Sweeney St. Viator

Sweeney, only a junior, excelled with both her bat and pitching arm for the Lions' record-settting campaign. "Julie was a very important part of our season this year," said St. Viator coach Dan Twarog. "She batted third in the order and delivered power (.368, 34 RBI, 7 home runs, 10 doubles, 2 triples) and timely hitting. Julie also pitched very well (15-10 record with a 2.90 ERA and 132 strikeouts). We look forward to her returning next year to help anchor the team. She intends to work hard this off-season to develop another offspeed-type pitch."

Bridget Urbanus St. Viator

St. Viator coach Dan Twarog said Urbanus concluded her fourth year on the varsity with the best single season any coach could ask for from a player. "Bridget did an outstanding job this year," he said. "She sparked the team with her offensive skills and flawless defense." Urbanus batted .491 with 38 runs, 7 doubles, 2 triples, 2 homers and 18 RBI. "She hit for power and always put the ball in play," Twarog added. "She was a tough out because of her speed." The Lions' center fielder did not make an error all season.

Kelly Voigt Fremd

She's going to Valparaiso to golf, but boy can she swing a softball bat. Voigt, who has been red hot during the state tourney, is hitting .400 with 9 doubles, 2 triples, 5 homers and 24 RBI. She holds several Fremd offensive career and single-season records. "Kelly started off a little slowly after an injury in the preseason and has been Fremd's hottest hitter (3 homers) in the playoffs," said coach Jim Weaver. "In addition, she is the best defensive third baseman in Fremd softball history. She keeps everyone loose with her positive attitude and is a joy to be around every day."

Kristine Werling Fremd

She's at the top of her Fremd senior class as a student, and she's at the top of the batting order where she serves as one of the state's best leadoff hitters. The speedy slap-hitting catcher is batting .512 with 63 hits, 38 runs and 30 stolen bases. "Kristine is our fire-starter," said coach Jim Weaver. "She sets the table for the power in the middle of the lineup. She probably could have stolen 20 more bases but we didn't run her as much because people would walk 'Z' (Lauren Zaworski) with first base open." Weaver calls Werling a quiet leader and said, "She is an excellent complement behind the plate for (pitcher) Lena Brottman. And Kristine is a top character kid."

Lauren Zaworski Fremd

Zaworski was verbally committed to Loyola University before her junior season, and she certaintly went on to show why the Ramblers were so eager to sign her. This spring, the slugging first baseman is hitting .417 with 45 hits, 43 runs, 11 doubles, 1 triple, 7 homers and 45 RBI. "Lauren is the power in the middle of the our order," said coach Jim Weaver. "She is our most well-known hitter, and people pitch our whole lineup differently in order to avoid pitching to 'Z.' She is also a fantastic leader and someone who has the respect of all players and coaches while still making things fun and entertaining. Hands down, Lauren is the best power hitter (school-record 16 career home runs) in Fremd softball history."

Special mention

Katie Fitzgerald (Maine West, So., C), Aubrey Fulton (Hersey, Sr., P), Kristin Kuhn (Barrington, Jr., C), April Markowski (Leyden, So., P-OF), Mary Styzek (Prospect, Jr., OF), Dana Thomas (Leyden, Sr., 1B-OF), Becca Thompson (Schaumburg, Jr., 1B) , Ariel Valles (Maine West, Fr., P)

Honorable mention

Vanessa Bagneschi (Maine West, Sr., OF), Alexis Carravetta (Schaumburg, Jr., OF), Miranda Cavin (Conant, So., C), Kristen Cetkovic (Elk Grove, Jr., OF), Nicole Chase (Schaumburg, Sr., SS), Maria Dax (Buffalo Grove, Jr., P), Abby Dickey (St. Viator, Sr., 3B), Allie Ellwood (Maine West, Sr., IF), Alex Flasch (St. Viator, So., SS), Kim Giannini (Leyden, Sr., C), Megan Hubbard (Fremd, So., 2B), Megan Keegan (Elk Grove, So., OF), Kelly Keyzer (Rolling Meadows, Jr., C), Loren Krzysko (Barrington, Fr., 3B), Tayler Lenart (St. Viator, Jr., C), Nora Logue (Barrington, Sr., OF), Sam Mangrum (Prospect, Jr., P), Abby Matayka (Roliing Meadows, Jr., 3B), Becky Menelle (Wheeling, Sr., C), Christina Morgan (Leyden, Sr., OF), Amanda Moran (Leyden, Sr., 2B), Kelsey Pellus (Hoffman Estates, Jr., C), Nikki Surico (Prospect, Jr., 3B)

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<h2>Related documents</h2>

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<li><a href="/pdf/cooksoftballfront10.pdf">Northwestern suburban all-area team Page 1</a></li>

<li><a href="/pdf/cooksoftballteam10.pdf">Northwestern suburban all-area team Page 2</a></li>

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