Softball Recap: Illinois Valley Central Triumphs

Illinois Valley Central posted their closest victory since May 17, 2024 on Monday. They came out on top in a nail-biter against the Peoria Notre Dame Irish, sneaking past 3-1. The Grey Ghosts haven't had any issues with the Irish recently, as the game was their fourth consecutive win against them.

Emersyn Fleming

Batters Struck Out

03/24/25 vs Pontiac	1
03/27/25 vs Illini Bluffs	3
04/12/25 @ Monticello	3
03/18/25 @ Limestone	4
04/09/25 vs Bloomington Central Catholic	4

Emersyn Fleming spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered a run (which was unearned) on five hits and racked up six Ks. Those six strikeouts set a new season-high mark for her.

At the plate, Abby Bazyn was excellent, scoring a run while going 3-for-3. That's the most hits she has posted over her last ten matchups. Taylor Zannacker also deserves some recognition as she hit her first triple of the season.

Illinois Valley Central was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .387. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Peoria Notre Dame only posted a batting average of .231.

Illinois Valley Central's record is now 9-5. As for Peoria Notre Dame, the defeat snapped their winning streak at three games and leaves them with a 6-5 record.

Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Illinois Valley Central will take on Hartsburg-Emden at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The Stags have struggled to contain batters this season (they've allowed 13.4 runs per game on average), something the Grey Ghosts will no doubt try to take advantage of. As for Peoria Notre Dame, they will square off against Prairie Central at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday.