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July 10, 2012
Softball team tryouts

Calling all softball players! The Cyclones are holding tryouts for the 2012-13 season on Aug. 29 and 30 from 3 to 5 p.m. on the softball field located on the west side of campus behind Building P. Come prepared to play ball.

For more information, contact head coach Mike Veen at (708) 805-3664 or email veenm3@morainevalley.edu.

May 9, 2012
Cyclones finish up 2012 with 20 wins

A second consecutive 20-win season is quite an accomplishment for second-year softball head coach Mike Veen. Although he would have liked his squad to finish higher in NJCAA Region IV and the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference, he is pleased with how the team performed and is sad to see his sophomores go.

The team finished third in District B in the Region IV semi-finals, a higher placement than last year. Ending the season with an overall 20-25-1 record and 8-6 conference record, the Cyclones played well and had several games where the end result could have gone either way. “There were probably seven or eight losses that we could have won. There was an error here or there, but it is what it is. It was an enjoyable season and the team got along well,” Veen said.

Throughout the season many of the athletes had to play out of their normal positions, including both pitchers, Samantha Staisiunas (Andrew) and Emily Kurek (Mount Assisi), who typically play left field and second base, respectively. The Cyclones also had a catcher playing first base and a leftfielder at shortstop. “It’s pretty amazing we did as well as we did. I give them a lot of credit because it’s not their natural position and it isn’t easy. If you haven’t seen a fly ball in six or seven years, it’s hard to track it down,” Veen said. “To come out with 20 wins through all that, that’s a good season.”

Putting up some big numbers this year, Staisiunas had an outstanding season at the plate hitting an average .440. She was named to the All-Region, All-Region Tournament and All-Conference teams. Danielle Stark (Stagg) and Stephanie Ruvalcaba (Argo) also hit over .300. Stark and Kurek were named to the All-Conference team while Theresa Urchell (Evergreen Park) got the nod to the All-Region Tournament team.

A good core group of players is expected to return next season, including Staisiunas, Kurek and Stark. Of the sophomores, Ruvalcaba has signed to play softball at Benedictine University starting this fall. Veen said he’ll miss coaching the sophomores, since they started at Moraine Valley when he started as the head coach. “They were the first group I had here so I’ll miss them. And naturally I’ll miss coaching my daughter. These are nice young ladies, and all in all it was a good season,” Veen said.

May 6, 2012
Cyclones hit playoffs

The Cyclones started off with a bang in the NJCAA Region IV quarterfinals May 1, surging to a 6-0 lead over McHenry County College in the first inning. But Mother Nature had other ideas, raining out the rest of the game until May 2. Once the game resumed, the lead changed hands several times until the ninth inning when Theresa Urchell (Evergreen Park) hit a smash to score the winning run in the Cyclones’ 12-11 victory.

Emily Kurek (Mount Assisi) earned the win. Stephanie Ruvalcaba (Argo) was 3-for-5 with an RBI and two runs scored. Sam Staisiunas (Andrew) went 3-for-6 with two doubles, two runs scored and an RBI while Courtney Wheaton (Illiana Christian) had a double, RBI, a walk, and scored two.

In their second matchup, the Cyclones had one bad inning, a reoccurring killer this season, to lose 8-3 to McHenry. Kurek also pitched this game. Danielle Stark (Stagg) went 2-for-3 at the plate with a double and Staisiunas also had a double.

By the third game with the Scots, the Cyclone bats came alive. Everyone on the team had at least one hit to crush McHenry 20-7. Staisiunas pitched for the win. Erika Veen (Oak Lawn) went 2-for-5 with two walks, three runs scored and two RBIs. Urchell had a double, RBI and scored three. Stark had a double, triple, walk, two RBIs, and scored twice.

With these two wins the Cyclones advanced to the Region IV semi-finals May 4-5. For their first game on May 4 the Cyclones faced a tough rival in Kankakee Community College. Unlike some of their previous meetings this season, the Cyclones held their own. Both teams played well with Moraine Valley taking the 2-0 loss. Kurek held the Cavaliers to four hits, forcing nine pop outs. Urchell went 2-for-3 and Stark was 1-for-3 at the plate.

The Cyclones earned their 20th win in the following game against Oakton Community College. Kurek pitched in the 8-4 win. Stark was 3-for-5 with a triple and run scored while Staisiunas had a double, run scored and RBI. Urchell scored one.

Although the Cyclones would have liked to advance further in the playoffs, they were outscored in their game on May 5 against Prairie State College and lost 7-3. The Pioneers scored four runs in one inning to unravel the Cyclones. Staisiunas had a homerun and RBI. Veen also had an RBI and Kurek scored a run. Although not the way the Cyclones wanted to end the season, the team did finish third in District B contention, higher and with more wins than in the playoffs last year.

2011/12 Season

Season Record: 20-25-1
Conference Record: 8-6

All-Region team: Samantha Staisiunas, Theresa Urchell
All-Conference team: Emily Kurek, Danielle Stark, Staisiunas

* Denotes Conference Game
Double header in italics

August 16, 2011
Softball team tryouts

Learn about what it takes to be a Cyclones at an informational meeting on Friday, Aug. 26, 3 p.m., in Building A, Room 201. Tryouts will then be held on Thursday, Sept. 1, 4-7 p.m., on the softball field on the west side of campus. Interested players should attend both the meeting and tryout session.

Cyclones head softball coach Mike Veen has scheduled practices and games throughout September. For more information, contact Coach Veen at (708) 974-5727 or e-mail veenm3@morainevalley.edu.

2011 Season

Season Record: 21-15
Conference Record: 9-3

Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference Player of the Year: Sandy Saunders (Reavis)
All-Conference first team: Maureen Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park), Molly Hankes (Richards), Jayne Joyce (Mount Assisi), and Saunders
All-Conference second team: Maggi Crockett (Marist) and Katie Ferguson (Richards)

* Denotes Conference Game

May 11, 2011
Twenty-plus wins and high athlete honors highlight season

From an eight-game win streak and athlete honors to winning 21 games and finishing second in the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference, the Cyclones finished their 2011 run in the semi-finals, a few games shy of qualifying for the national tournament. Not bad for a team that finished below .500 last year.

With first-year Cyclones coach Mike Veen in place last fall and nine new players on board, Moraine Valley had a season of unknowns. How would the team compare to last year? Would they improve on their 9-24 record from 2010? After some tough games to start the season, the Cyclones gelled, putting out four-, five- and eight-game win streaks and finishing with a 21-15 season record and 9-3 conference mark.

"They really had a good season. All in all I had a lot of fun, and this was a great group of girls. We went further than I thought from the get-go. Maybe they surprised themselves," Veen said. "I didn't want to go below .500 and we didn't. To have over 20 wins and come in second in the conference after finishing in the bottom of the conference last season, that's not too bad."

Thanks to consistent training indoors over the winter and good team chemistry, the Cyclones finished their season in the semi-finals. Several players were acknowledged for their play in the conference. Sophomore pitcher Sandy Saunders (Reavis) was named Skyway Conference Player of the Year in addition to being named to the All-Conference first team. Molly Hankes (Richards), Maureen Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park), and Jayne Joyce (Mount Assisi) also received nods to the first team. Sophomores Maggi Crockett (Marist) and Katie Ferguson (Richards) were named to the All-Conference second team.

Several players are transferring to four-year colleges with a few continuing to play softball. Veen anticipates a few returners and will look to recruit new Cyclones to help conquer the conference in 2012.

May 9, 2011
Cyclones fall in semi-finals

The Cyclones headed into the NJCAA Region IV semi-finals having swept College of Lake County in the quarterfinals and running on a four-game win streak. However, all the wheels fell off for Moraine Valley as they were eliminated from the tournament in two games on May 6.

Both games should have been wins, as the Cyclones had beaten both Prairie State College and McHenry County College in the regular season. Unfortunately, too many errors hampered the Cyclones defense. The first game was a 5-1 loss to Prairie State. Sandy Saunders (Reavis) pitched, giving up just six hits. The offense was stagnant with Mo Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park), Maggi Crockett (Marist) and Elizabeth Reynolds (Queen of Peace) going 1-for-3. Crockett scored the lone run and Reynolds earned the RBI.

For the second game, Moraine Valley faced McHenry, losing 10-2. One rough inning was all it took, the first inning when McHenry scored nine, in part due to a comedy of errors. "Sometimes you just have one of those innings, and the players get all rattled. It was just one of those days," said coach Mike Veen. Molly Hankes (Richards) and Crockett scored the runs for the Cyclones. Galazkiewicz and Crockett each had an RBI.

"We had a good season, I just wish it went a little bit longer. I've been around girls' softball long enough to know that any team can beat any other team on any given day," Veen said.

May 4, 2011
Cyclones advance to semi-finals

The Cyclones had their revenge May 3 in the NJCAA Region IV playoff matchup against College of Lake County, the team that knocked them out of the first round of playoffs last year. On their home field, Moraine Valley swept the Lancers, doing so with flair in the second game to advance to the semi-finals.

Sandy Saunders (Reavis) had a big series starting with the first game where she pitched and struck out five. She was a homerun shy of hitting for the cycle, scored three times and had three RBIs. Molly Hankes (Richards) was 3-for-4 with two runs scored, Mo Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park) scored a run and Maggi Crockett (Marist) had four RBIs. Moraine Valley easily won the game 7-1.

The second game was more of a barn burner with the lead flip-flopping until the bottom of the seventh inning with the score tied at eight. The Cyclones had runners on first and second base with two outs. Saunders came up to bat and crushed a game-winning homerun over the fence. A ball hasn't been hit out of Moraine Valley's field this season. That hit was Saunders' last official at-bat at the college.

"What a way to go out. As soon as it left the bat you could tell it was gone. It's an outstanding way to end your career at Moraine Valley. That's something she'll always remember," said coach Mike Veen.

Several Cyclones made an impact at the plate as well. In addition to her homerun, Saunders scored twice and had five RBIs. Galazkiewicz had three RBIs and scored while Erika Veen (Oak Lawn) was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Hankes pitched for the win.

April 30, 2011
Cyclones sweep Pioneers

Moraine Valley sealed their second place finish in the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference after sweeping Prairie State College April 29 at home, 9-5 and 5-2.

Molly Hankes (Richards) pitched the first game. The top of the lineup was strong with sophomores Sandy Saunders (Reavis), Maggi Crockett (Marist) and Mo Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park) each getting two RBIs.

Saunders pitched the second game and had a number of defensive gems and putouts behind her to keep the Cyclones ahead. Galazkiewicz and Alyssa Prucak (Oak Forest) each scored one, hit a double and had an RBI. Caitlyn Renik (Eisenhower) scored a run while Theresa Urchell (Evergreen Park) had a double and RBI.

"I'm really happy with how the team is playing. In these games, if some players are having off days at the plate, then the rest of the team picks up the slack. The team really compliments each other," said coach Mike Veen.

April 22, 2011
Cyclones fall short

Both Moraine Valley and Waubonsee Community College had identical conference records, so their April 21 matchup was a determining factor in which team would top the conference. Although it was a hard-fought battle, the Cyclones fell short in both games, losing 4-2 and 12-6.

Sandy Saunders (Reavis) pitched the first game, and was strong at the plate going 3-for-4 with a double and RBI. Both Maggi Crockett (Marist) and Jayne Joyce (Mount Assisi) were 2-for-3 while Stephanie Ruvalcaba (Argo) scored a run.

Erika Veen (Oak Lawn) scored a run in the second game and had an RBI. Saunders was 2-for-5 with a run scored and an RBI. Mo Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park) had a double, RBI and a run scored.

April 21, 2011
Cyclones drop two

The Cyclones had their work cut out for them April 20 in a double header with College of DuPage. Despite some solid work at the plate, Moraine Valley couldn't score enough to win either game.

In the first game Moraine Valley lost 10-5. Molly Hankes (Richards) pitched a complete game and was 2-for-4 with two runs scored. Maggi Crockett (Marist) scored one and had an RBI. Colleen Soppet (Shepard) had an RBI while Sandy Saunders (Reavis) was 2-for-4 with a run scored and two RBIs.

The Cyclones lost some steam in the second game, losing 12-4. Caitlyn Renik (Eisenhower) was 2-for-2 with a double, RBI and run scored. Saunders pitched this game and at the plate hit a double, scored a run and had an RBI.

April 15, 2011
Nasty weather can't stop win streak

The streak continues for the Cyclones who notched two more wins April 14. Cold temperatures and howling winds couldn't stop Moraine Valley from sweeping Oakton Community College, 7-3 and 6-3.

The Cyclones are playing some solid ball with strengths in all aspects of the game. Sandy Saunders (Reavis) threw in game one with five strikeouts then helped her cause at the plate by scoring one and earning three runs batted in. Theresa Urchell (Evergreen Park) scored two, Katie Ferguson (Richards) went 2-for-3 with a double and RBI, and Jennifer Jessup (A & M Consolidated) had two RBI before a headfirst slide into home plate sidelined her with an injury.

Molly Hankes (Richards) pitched an even colder second game. Elizabeth Reynolds (Queen of Peace) had a good night at the plate with a homerun, four RBI and a run scored. Both Maggi Crockett (Marist) and Saunders doubled. There were only a few hits in both games, but enough for the wins.

April 14, 2011
Six-game win streak for Cyclones

Two shutouts by the Cyclones on April 13 added to the team's six-game win streak. Both Cyclones pitchers played well in identical 2-0 win games against South Suburban College.

On the mound, Molly Hankes (Richards) kept the game tight. A move to put Alyssa Prucak (Oak Forest) in as pinch hitter gave the Cyclones the win as she drove in both runs. Jayne Joyce (Mount Assisi) and Maggi Crockett (Marist) each scored a run.

Sandy Saunders (Reavis) pitched a one-hitter in the second game, striking out seven. She helped her own cause by going 2-for-3 with an RBI. Hankes and Stephanie Ruvalcaba (Argo) each scored.

April 13, 2011
Nail biter keeps 'Clones on top

A couple more wins were had by the Cyclones April 12, but not without some extra innings and last inning runs. Moraine Valley won 4-3 and 2-1 against McHenry County College.

Sandy Saunders (Reavis) pitched the first game, striking out four and allowing just five hits. The Scots tied up the game in the seventh inning, pushing it into extra innings. Theresa Urchell (Evergreen Park) scored the winner and was 2-for-4 on the night. Caitlyn Renik (Eisenhower) was a terror at the plate going 3-for-4 and scoring a couple runs. Saunders and Erika Veen (Oak Lawn) were 2-for-4.

Molly Hankes (Richards) pitched the nightcap, allowing no runs until the seventh inning. In the bottom of the seventh with the game tied, the Cyclones loaded the bags. Mo Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park) was a runner on third base, tagged on a fly ball hit by Maggi Crockett (Marist) and slid around the catcher in a play at the plate for the winning run. Colleen Soppet (Shepard) scored the other run. Jennifer Jessup (A & M Consolidated), Soppet and Crockett were each 1-for-3.

April 12, 2011
Cyclones wipe out Wolves

The Cyclones continued their momentum with two wins over Joliet Junior College on April 11.

The Wolves scored most of their runs in the first inning before the Cyclones defense and pitcher Molly Hankes (Richards) shut them down in the first game, a 6-4 win. Hankes scored while Sandy Saunders (Reavis) went 3-for-4 with an RBI and Elizabeth Reynolds (Queen of Peace) had two RBIs and was 2-for-3.

Another first inning scoring barrage by Joliet was dampened by the Cyclones in game two. Hankes had a big night with two doubles, a run scored and three RBIs. "Not bad for a slap hitter," according to coach Mike Veen. Saunders and Theresa Urchell (Evergreen Park) each hit a double. Erika Veen (Oak Lawn) was 1-for-3 with a run scored. The Cyclones won the nightcap 5-4.

April 11, 2011
Cyclones at .500 after tourney

The Cyclones jumped back to .500 over the weekend, April 9-10, in the East/West Tournament in Freeport, winning three out of four games.

The Cyclones started with a crushing 20-4 blowout over South Suburban College. Maggi Crockett (Marist) and Elizabeth Reynolds (Queen of Peace) each had a grand slam. Molly Hankes (Richards) earned the win with her four strikeouts.

"I couldn't believe it. We just kept scoring, and almost everyone was 2-for-4. Everybody had hits. It was a very good game," said coach Mike Veen.

The game against Elgin Community College was more evenly matched with a narrow 2-1 win for Moraine Valley. Elgin scored in the first inning before the Cyclones defense shut them down. Sandy Saunders (Reavis) gave up four hits and helped her own cause by scoring a run, and Katie Ferguson (Richards) scored the other.

Cyclones defense came through once again in the team's 6-3 win over McHenry County College. Down 3-2 going into the sixth inning, the Cyclones had some walks and a double, but a pinch-hitting move put Crockett up to bat where she hit a homerun to put her team ahead. Erika Veen (Oak Lawn) also was 2-for-3 and Mo Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park) went 2-for-2 at the plate.

The Cyclones's only loss for the tournament came against Waubonsee Community College. One rough inning where fielders threw the ball around too much gave Moraine Valley the 5-2 loss. In a stunning last-inning catch, centerfielder Stephanie Ruvalcaba (Argo) ran into the outfield fence and hung on to the ball.

April 8, 2011
Cyclones sweep Lancers

It was another sweep for the Cyclones April 7, this time at home against College of Lake County. Moraine Valley won 8-1 and 6-4.

Katie Ferguson (Richards), Jennifer Jessup (A & M Consolidated) and Erika Veen (Oak Lawn) each scored two. Sandy Saunders (Reavis) had three RBIs for the first game in addition to pitching a near shutout.

Maureen Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park) had a strong second game at the plate, going 2-for-4 with a double, grabbing one RBI and scoring two. Caitlyn Renik (Eisenhower) was 1-for-4 with an RBI. Saunders and Molly Hankes (Richards) threw their entire respective games, each striking out five.

April 6, 2011
'Clones split two

Coming off a sweep of Triton College, the Cyclones capitalized on their offensive prowess and split two April 5 with Elgin Community College.

Colleen Soppet (Shepard) was on fire at the plate in the first game, going 3-for-4 with three homeruns, five RBIs and three runs scored to help the Cyclones win 13-8. Caitlyn Renik (Eisenhower) doubled twice and both Molly Hankes (Richards) and Jennifer Jessup (A & M Consolidated) were 3-for-5 with a run scored. Stephanie Ruvalcaba (Argo) had a double and scored twice while Elizabeth Reynolds (Queen of Peace) hit a homerun. Hankes earned the win.

Moraine Valley couldn't manage the sweep in a narrow 6-4 loss in the second game. Alyssa Prucak (Oak Forest) doubled and Renik scored one and added an RBI. Maureen Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park) hit a homerun while Sandy Saunders (Reavis) and Ruvalcaba were each 2-for-4 with one RBI. Saunders pitched a complete game and had six strikeouts for the night.

April 4, 2011
Losing streak snapped

The Cyclones finally snapped their losing streak April 3 to take two from Triton College.

Molly Hankes (Richards) pitched a complete game, giving up five hits and striking out two for the 11-7 win. Maggi Crockett (Marist) hit a double and homerun, scoring one and grabbing two RBIs. Katie Ferguson (Richards) and Elizabeth Reynolds (Queen of Peace) each had a double, one RBI and scored a run. Stephanie Ruvalcaba (Argo) had a big night going 2-for-5 with four RBIs and one run scored.

Moraine Valley played a second strong game, winning the nightcap 7-4. Jennifer Jessup (A & M Consolidated) and Theresa Urchell (Evergreen Park) doubled while Alyssa Prucak (Oak Forest) had two RBIs, scoring one herself. Ruvalcaba ended her game with two RBIs, totaling six for the series. Sandy Saunders (Reavis) earned the win while striking out seven.

March 31, 2011
Cyclones take a beating

The Cyclones tacked a couple more losses onto their season after being roughed up by College of DuPage at home March 30.

In the first game Sandy Saunders (Reavis) pitched, but couldn't hold back the Chaparrals who defeated Moraine Valley 8-1. Maureen Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park), Erika Veen (Oak Lawn) and Theresa Urchell (Evergreen Park) were all 1-for-3 at the plate. Alyssa Prucak (Oak Forest) had an RBI while Stephanie Ruvalcaba (Argo) scored the lone run.

The Cyclones found more offense in the second game, but still lost 14-5 with Molly Hankes (Richards) on the mound. Elizabeth Reynolds (Queen of Peace) and Galazkiewicz each scored a run. Jayne Joyce (Mt. Assisi) was 1-for-3 with two RBIs while Colleen Soppet (Shepard) went 1-for-3 with a double.

March 30, 2011
Cyclones fall just short

One-run losses are the most painful, and Moraine Valley had two of them March 27 against Kishwaukee College.

Sandy Saunders (Reavis) pitched the first game, which ended in a 5-4 loss. She did have a good night at the plate with two RBIs and two runs scored. Molly Hankes (Richards) was 2-for-4 with one run scored, and Alyssa Prucak (Oak Forest) was 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI.

In game two the Cyclones lost 7-6 with Hankes on the mound. Colleen Soppet (Shepard) had an RBI and scored one while Jayne Joyce (Mount Assisi) had a double, two RBIs and one run scored. Caitlyn Renik (Eisenhower) and Maureen Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park) each hit a double while Saunders went 1-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored.

March 25, 2011
Cyclones shut down

Always a tough battle, the Cyclones dropped two to rival Kankakee Community College on March 24.

In the first game, Moraine Valley was shut out 8-0. Maggi Crockett (Marist), Katie Ferguson (Richards) and Jennifer Jessup (A & M Consolidated) each went 1-for-2 at the plate. Sandy Saunders (Reavis) hit a double, in addition to pitching the entire game.

For the nightcap, the Cyclones were able to score three, but were no match for the Cavaliers' 11 runs. Elizabeth Reynolds (Queen of Peace) was 1-for-3 at the plate with a homerun in addition to two RBIs. Molly Hankes (Richards) and Jayne Joyce (Mount Assisi) went 1-for-2 at the plate with Joyce scoring a run. Stephanie Ruvalcaba (Argo) was 1-for-3 with a run scored. Theresa Urchell (Evergreen Park) and Hankes split pitching duties.

March 22, 2011
Cyclones split home opener

Warmer weather lessened the sting of the bat-on-ball action, which was prevalent for the Cyclones in their home opener doubleheader against Aurora University JV on March 21.

Moraine Valley started strong, a 10-7 win, with sophomore Sandy Saunders (Reavis) pitching a complete game. Jennifer Jessup (A & M Consolidated) and Theresa Urchell (Evergreen Park) each went 2-for-4 with Urchell hitting a double while Molly Hankes (Richards) and Katie Ferguson (Richards) each scored twice.

The hitting was more scattered for the nightcap, but after two international tie breakers the Cyclones lost 9-6. Urchell and Hankes split pitching duties. Maggi Crockett (Marist) went 2-for-2 with a double and Colleen Soppet (Shepard) hit 2-for-5.

"They were two pretty good games right out of the box. I was happy with the way they played, and it was my first college win," said coach Mike Veen.

March 17, 2011
New coach, new outlook for softball team

There's a new look and feel to the Cyclones softball team this season. With a roster loaded with newcomers and a new head coach, the group is anxious to see what they can accomplish in 2011.

Mike Veen took the helm of the Cyclones in fall 2010, bringing with him years of coaching experience, including managing Oak Lawn ICE Fastpitch Softball teams since 2001 and coaching Oak Lawn Girls Softball teams for seven years. He looks forward to a challenging but exciting venture with Moraine Valley. As long as the team solidifies, Veen has confidence in their ability to succeed this year.

"Teamwork is going to play a major part in the success of our season," Veen said. "We have a roster full of talented women, and if they can come together and play as one, there's nothing that can stop them."

Five returning players will be expected to lead the way this season. Catcher and second basewoman Maggi Crockett (Marist) and first basewoman Jayne Joyce (Mount Assisi) as well as 2010 All-Conference first team player Sandy Saunders (Reavis) and second team All-Conference athletes Maureen Galazkiewicz (Evergreen Park) and Katie Ferguson (Richards) rejoin the Cyclones' efforts.

New to the squad are Molly Hankes (Richards), Erika Veen (Oak Lawn), Stephanie Ruvalcaba (Argo), Jennifer Jessup (A & M Consolidated), Alyssa Prucak (Oak Forest), Colleen Soppet (Shepard), Caitlyn Renik (Eisenhower), Elizabeth Reynolds (Queen of Peace), and Theresa Urchell (Evergreen Park). These freshmen recruits should make an immediate impact and look to have promising softball careers ahead of them.

Looking at the makeup of the team, Veen has a good outlook for the Cyclones. "We have a lot of talent and depth at all positions on our team. If we are able to stay healthy, I think we'll make a strong run for the conference championship."

Veen is joined this season by assistant coaches Natalie Wigginton, a former Cyclones, and Mike Richy.

August 18, 2010
Softball team tryouts

The Cyclones are holding an informational meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 25, 3 p.m., in Building G, Room 211, followed by tryouts on Wednesday, Sept. 1, 4 p.m., on the softball field on the west side of campus. Interested players should attend both the meeting and tryout session.

New Cyclones head softball coach Mike Veen has scheduled practices throughout September and the beginning of October that will culminate with a doubleheader game against Trinity Christian College. For more information, contact Coach Veen at (708) 974-5727 or e-mail woodnshu617@comcast.net.

2010 Season

Season Record: 9-24
Conference Record: 5-7

All-Conference first team: Elizabeth Healy (Marist/North Central College), Samantha Salis (Mother McAuley) and Sandy Saunders (Reavis)
All-Conference second team: Katie Ferguson (Richards) and Maureen Galazkiewicz
(Evergreen Park)

* Denotes Conference Game

May 6, 2010
It's a wrap for softball season

Much like the weather, it took a few weeks before the Cyclones warmed up their hitting, fielding and pitching this season, but the softball season came to an abrupt end after a heartbreaking triple header loss May 4 in the NJCAA Region IV quarterfinals. The team was just three outs from advancing to the semifinals.

The season had some setbacks and ended with a 9-24 overall record including a stronger 5-7 conference record. Throughout the year there were some outstanding defensive plays, particularly outfield play by Liz Healy, Kelsey Hayes, Katie Ferguson, and Gianna Sunta. The infield was strong thanks to Sami Salis, Mo Galazkiewicz, Sandy Saunders, Maggi Crockett, Sarah Nikitscher, Jayne Joyce, and Pam Yolich sharing the responsibility. Catching duties vacillated between Yolich, Galazkiewicz and Crockett, while Saunders, Healy and sometimes Crockett shouldered most of the pitching. Nyeshiea Johnson contributed in a utility role.

Galazkiewicz led the offense with a .441 batting average that included 11 doubles, 20 runs scored, 15 runs batted in, and a walk-off home run. Following close behind was Salis with eight doubles, three triples, a home run, 19 runs batted in, and a .367 average. Saunders had a .360 average with six doubles, five triples, a home run, and 23 runs scored.

Saunders was a threat at the plate and on the mound where she pitched 89 innings, giving up just 25 earned runs, and maintaining a 1.96 ERA. She struck out 70 batters while walking 18. Healy also held her own, pitching a 3.77 ERA through 89 innings, giving up 48 earned runs, striking out 32, and walking 30.

The Cyclones really jelled in mid-April and were at their peak in the playoffs. "The last few weeks we've played much better ball, and we ended at our best. Everyone on the team showed much improvement. By the end of the season it was like a different team," said coach Dick Loescher. "Next year we're going to miss our sophomores Yolich, Salis and Healy. They'll leave important positions to be filled. However, the remaining nine players, should they return, will form an excellent nucleus for the 2011 squad anchored by Saunders and Galazkiewicz. By adding a few new players next season, the team should be a strong contender for a conference championship."

Several athletes received honors including Healy, Salis and Saunders who were named to the All-Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference first team, and Ferguson and Galazkiewicz who received nods for the second team.

May 5, 2010
Playoff run ends for Cyclones

The Cyclones put up a good daylong fight in the NJCAA Region IV quarterfinals, narrowly missing a chance to move on in the playoffs, but shouted their last hurrah of the season May 4.

In what turned out to be a best two out of three triple header with number two seed College of Lake County, the seventh seeded Cyclones had their work cut out for them. In the first game, Sandy Saunders pitched solidly, and by the seventh inning the Cyclones were up 4-3. However, the Lancers pushed the game into extra innings after tying the game with two outs. In the top of the eighth Moraine Valley scored three runs to go ahead 7-4 for the win.

Pitcher Liz Healy started the second game, and her team busted out with a 2-0 lead in the first inning. The following innings played out like a tennis match with the lead going back and forth. In the fifth inning Saunders relieved Healy on the mound, but another tie score pushed the game into extra innings. In the top of the eighth the Cyclones scored two runs to take a seemingly safe 8-6 lead. A combination of hits by the Lancers and Cyclones errors made for a heartbreaking 10-8 loss for Moraine Valley.

Healy was back on the mound for the third game, which started a bit rough for the Cyclones. Before long Lake County was up 10-1, but the Cyclones would not relent. Moraine Valley battled back with some runs, but not enough and ended their season with a 10-6 loss.

"It was a heartbreaking loss for the Cyclones after being so close to advancing to Friday's semifinals," said coach Dick Loescher. "They battled hard all day. They were on the field from 12:15 until 7:45 p.m. Every one of the Cyclones contributed on offense and defense. They showed heart as well as talent, and the coaches are very proud of them."

May 3, 2010
Cyclones finish regular season with losses before playoffs

The Cyclones had a tough outing against Triton College as they dropped two in their doubleheader May 2.

There were few highlights in the 9-4 and 6-5 losses. Maureen Galazkiewicz was the hitting star for the day going 5-7, including four doubles. The Cyclones defense played solid as well.

The next big test for Moraine Valley will be Tuesday, when they travel to Lake County to start the Region IV quarter-finals. If the Cyclones are successful, they will continue in the semi-finals on Friday.

April 23, 2010
Cyclones sweep Pioneers

The Cyclones regained some momentum and broke their losing streak April 22 as they took two from Prairie State College.

Liz Healy pitched the first four innings of game one for the win, while reliever Sandy Saunders earned a saved. Moraine Valley started off hot at the plate in the first inning, scoring five runs on three doubles, two triples and a single. They continued their hitting tear for the 12-6 win. Saunders, Mo Galazkiewicz and Sami Salis each had three hits.

By the second game the Cyclones found their stride. Saunders pitched a solid five innings, while the offense stayed hot for the 9-1 win and sweep of the Pioneers. Saunders had two more hits in this game including another triple with three runs scored. Salis, Kelsey Hayes and Sarah Nikitscher each had two hits. The hitting highlight, however, belongs to Galazkiewicz who hit a solo walk-off home run in the bottom of the fifth inning to end the game by slaughter rule. She was 3-for-3 with two RBIs. "Needless to say, we were in high spirits," said coach Dick Loescher.

April 22, 2010
Cyclones fall to Bulldogs

The Cyclones continue to play good ball, but dropped another two April 21.
 
The first game held at 0-0 until the sixth inning when South Suburban came up with 4 runs to defeat Moraine Valley 4-0. Pitcher Liz Healy was again solid on the mound, but the defense faltered and the offense provided no support. Healy gave up only five hits and no earned runs, striking out three, all of which adds to her plummeting earned run average. Mo Galazkiewicz was the bright spot in the batting order going 3-for-3 at the plate.

In the nightcap, Maggi Crockett pitched a good game keeping the score at 3-3 until the bottom of the fourth, when the Bulldogs gained the lead. Crockett gave up just two earned runs, but the Cyclones fell 9-3. Sami Salis went 3-4 and had an RBI. Katie Ferguson made two diving catches in center field and two great throws to home plate.

"Ferguson has developed into an outstanding center fielder for the Cyclones. And pitcher Crockett again displayed her tenaciousness despite her injured wrist," said coach Dick Loescher. "As usual, many good things happened in these two games, but the scoreboard didn't show us ahead in the end."

April 21, 2010
'Clones end flat

The Cyclones played two more good games April 20, but again came up on the short end of the scoreboard against College of Lake County.
 
Liz Healy continued her strong pitching streak this season, yielding no earned runs, but losing a heartbreaker, 2-1. In the first inning, third basewoman Sami Salis made a double play when she snared a hot line drive and tagged out the runner who had taken a small lead off third. Maggi Crockett made a diving stop of a hard grounder and flipped the ball to Sandy Saunders at second for a force out to kill a rally. However, Moraine Valley could only muster one run in the fight.
 
In the second game, Saunders struck out six of the first seven outs. She was backed up by a subsequent hitting barrage by the Cyclones who scored five to take the lead. Sarah Nikitscher made a great line drive catch at second base, while shortstop Pam Yolich made her own diving catch of an infield liner. Outfielders Healy, Kelsey Hayes, Gianna Sunta, and Katie Ferguson played their dependable defense in both games, as did Jayne Joyce at first base. Crockett again proved herself as a durable catcher in the second game despite having a bruised arm from games the prior day. Solid defense and early scoring couldn't prevent a comeback from the Lancers who handed the 8-5 loss to the Cyclones.

"The Cyclones deserved a better fate, but they played well and now look ahead to our upcoming games," said coach Dick Loescher.

April 20, 2010
'Clones play with heart, but fall to Spartans

The Cyclones fought a good fight against a tough Elgin pitcher, but came up just short of victory in their April 19 doubleheader.
 
Against a pitcher that has a few no-hitters to her credit, the Cyclones held their ground, but lost the first game 5-1. Southpaw Liz Healy pitched another solid game.

In the second game, the Spartans used the same pitcher, but Moraine Valley kept the score close. Going into the seventh inning, the Cyclones were down 2-0 and rallied to tie it up. The Cyclones' go-ahead run was thrown out at home plate from center field, pushing the game into extra innings. In the eighth inning with a runner on and two outs, the batter hit a long drive to deep left centerfield, but Healy made a running back-handed catch to hold the tie. In the end the Cyclones just couldn't outscore Elgin, losing 3-2 in the nightcap. Sandy Saunders pitched the entire game as solidly as the opposing pitcher. Maggi Crockett took care of Saunders' pitches behind the plate, even playing through a wrist injury in the final innings.
 
"Crockett showed an extra amount of fortitude and desire at catcher today, and it was inspiring to her teammates and the fans," said coach Dick Loescher. "All of the Cyclones played hard and played well. We coaches are proud of their efforts in these games."

April 16, 2010
Cyclones defense leads to split

The Cyclones are finding their stride, splitting two with Waubonsee April 15.

Both games were well played, and the Cyclones came out on top in the first game, 10-3. The score was close at 5-3 with Moraine Valley ahead until the last inning when the Cyclones pulled away with five more insurance runs. Sandy Saunders pitched another outstanding game, giving up only eight hits and two earned runs. Sami Salis was 2-4 including a triple, two scored runs and two RBIs. Katie Ferguson and Kelsey Hayes each added two RBIs. The defense added to the win with their solid fielding.

The second game was another close contest, but the Cyclones fell just short, losing 5-4. By the seventh inning the Chiefs were up 4-2, but Moraine Valley tied it up to push the game into extra innings. One extra run by Waubonsee in the eighth sealed the deal, splitting the doubleheader. Liz Healy pitched strong all eight innings, giving up six hits and no earned runs. The defense struggled, making errors that allowed all five runs. Salis, Sarah Nikitscher and Jayne Joyce each had two hits in this game. Saunders also had two hits, one of which was a triple.

April 14, 2010
Cyclones play hard, but drop two

The Cyclones played a couple hard-fought games but lost both April 13 to McHenry County College.

Moraine Valley lost the first matchup 8-3 in a game that was close all the way until the last inning. Sami Salis had a double and two RBIs. Liz Healy pitched solid throughout.

In the second game the Scots scored three unearned runs in the fifth inning to give the Cyclones a heart-breaking 3-2 loss. Sandy Saunders pitched a strong game, allowing just four hits and striking out four. She would have had a shutout if not for errors in the fifth inning. Sarah Nikitscher had a hot night at the plate with a double and a triple.

"The Cyclones made good plays in the field during the doubleheader, but ran into two excellent McHenry pitchers that were hard to hit. Overall, the Cyclones fought hard and played well," said coach Dick Loescher.

April 13, 2010
Cyclones win two with hot hitting

The Cyclones continued their hot streak at the plate April 12 by outscoring Morton College 15-1 and 16-3.

Defensively, Gianna Sunta and Kelsey Hayes made stunning catches in the outfield. Pitchers Liz Healy, Sandy Saunders, and Maggi Crockett were solid on the mound.

At the plate Saunders and Sami Salis hit the first home runs of the season for the Cyclones. Healy jacked a triple with the bases loaded, and Jayne Joyce had another field day at the plate going 5-7 with seven RBIs over both games. In game one Katie Ferguson was 2-2 with two walks, four runs scored and three RBIs. Nyeshiea Johnson went 1-2 with three walks, three runs scored and one RBI. "The team is riding high right now," said coach Dick Loescher.

April 12, 2010
Cyclones make noise at the plate for wins

Because of rescheduling the Cyclones hadn't played a game in over a week, but once they hit the field they found some momentum, and their bats. On April 11 the softball team made up for an otherwise unproductive year at the plate with two crushing wins over Harper College.

Moraine Valley came out screaming in the first game with a dominating 24-0 win. Sarah Nikitscher and Jayne Joyce had four hits each. Joyce also had five RBIs while Maggi Crockett had four. Sandy Saunders pitched a three-hit shutout, striking out eight.

In game two Moraine Valley continued their hot hitting, making 12 more hits to win 10-1. Sami Salis, Pam Yolich and Kelsey Hayes had two hits each. Saunders had two hits and three RBIs. Joyce had a combined seven RBIs for the day. Liz Healy pitched four shutout innings, followed by Crockett who pitched her first inning of the season, striking out two. Nikitscher also made a spectacular diving catch in right field to end the second game.

The Cyclones now head into the conference portion of their schedule, and are hoping to use the momentum from Sunday's game to get a good start against their conference foes.

April 1, 2010
Cyclones hitting woes continue

The hitting woes continued for the Cyclones as they dropped two games in a doubleheader with College of DuPage on March 31.

Moraine Valley played well in game one with Sandy Saunders pitching another fine seven innings, but the bats couldn't muster much against the Chaparral pitcher who shut the Cyclones down 4-0. In the night cap, things looked good early with the score at 2-1. By the middle innings DuPage took charge of the game and put it out of reach, ending in a 15-2 loss for the Cyclones.

March 31, 2010
Cyclones fight for first win this season

The Cyclones fought for their first win this season in an 8-7 triumph over Joliet Junior College on March 30. However, they lost momentum, falling 9-1 in the second game.

Moraine Valley was ahead 8-2 and seemed to have the game well in hand, but the Wolves made a furious attempt to come back. Liz Healy pitched a solid game and relief pitcher Sandy Saunders shut the door on Joliet to seal the win.

In the second game, the Cyclones jumped to a 1-0 lead, but could not sustain the momentum. Throughout both games the Cyclones made several outstanding plays in the field and had hard hits at the plate.

March 29, 2010
Bats come alive, but defense drops wins

The Cyclones bats came alive in a doubleheader March 27 with Kishwaukee College, but not enough to grab some wins.

In both games the Cyclones were ahead, but messy defense prevented them from holding onto leads. Moraine Valley lost 10-2 in the first game. By game two the Cyclones had scored more runs than in all their previous games this season. Despite losing 13-9, Moraine Valley had 10 hits, including doubles by Maureen Galazkiewicz and Sarah Nikitscher and a triple by Jayne Joyce. Maggi Crockett was 3-4 with a run scored and an RBI, and Nikitscher had three RBIs, in addition to one in the first game.

March 26, 2010
Cyclones battle weather and Cavaliers

Conditions were far less than ideal for the Cyclones in their battle with Kankakee Community College on March 25. Not only did Moraine Valley have to deal with the infield sand blowing into the dugout and frigid temperatures, but also a strong competitor. The Cyclones were shut out 12-0 in game one, but mustered a run in the second game for a 9-1 loss.

The scores don't indicate the competitiveness of the Cyclones, especially in the second game where the score was 2-0 going into the fifth inning. Some outstanding catches were made by Katie Ferguson, Sarah Nikitscher and Maggi Crockett. The Cyclones pitchers also threw well, especially Sandy Saunders who struck out seven.

March 24, 2010
Cyclones working out the kinks

It's been a rough start to the season for the Cyclones, having lost their first four games. The team squeezed in their first doubleheader on March 17 against Illinois Valley Community College losing 0-9 and 3-9. Coach Dick Loescher said despite the end results, the players were very competitive having only one bad inning in each game. Without those innings the scores would be much closer.

In their second doubleheader March 23 the Cyclones lost 0-11 and 0-13 to Triton College. The players were excited and ready to play a good game in great weather, Loescher said. Unfortunately, Triton had just spent spring training in Arizona playing Division I community college teams. Triton's pitchers shut down the Cyclones, who also made several errors in each game.

Even though the start has been rough, Loescher remains optimistic. 'There's no place to go but up from here, which we shall do."

March 16, 2010
New is the operative word for 2010 softball season

Three returning Cyclones will be joined this season by a new team and new coaches, ready to bring their A-game in 2010.

"We have many talented players. How that will translate to wins and losses is yet to be determined though," said head coach Dick Loescher. "I really don't know what to expect, but I am optimistic that we'll have a very good conference record. Our focus will be playing well in the conference."

The Cyclones have three strong returning athletes including All-Region IV and All-Conference second basewoman/pitcher Kelly Small (Oak Lawn) and infielders Sami Salis (Mother McAuley) and Pam Yolich (Oak Lawn). The trio will be leaders for the team and lend their experience on the field and at the plate. Loescher is hoping that the entire squad will benefit from this season.

"When the season is over I want all the players to feel good about their experience playing ball here. I want their season playing softball at Moraine to fuel their desire to continue playing, and make it an activity they continue when they're done with college. That love of the game can be nurtured through a positive experience with a team of this sort," Loescher said.

In his first year of coaching at Moraine Valley, Loescher wants to see all his athletes progress throughout the season with each player improving her skills. "I'm excited for the season and excited to see the progress the women will make. Having been a teacher 37 years, my life has been one of helping students grow. This will hopefully be another such avenue," he said.

Loescher will be joined by assistant coach Pat Warren, who brings with him a lengthy background in playing and coaching baseball.

March 9, 2010
Softball team preparing for season

The ground is still a bit frozen outside, but the softball players are heating up their skills indoors in preparation for the upcoming season. The Cyclones are scheduled to play their first game on March 23. Look for more information on the team soon.

February 9, 2010
Softball tryouts

Interested in playing softball this spring for the Cyclones? Attend one of the tryouts scheduled for Friday, Feb. 26, and Saturday, Feb. 27, from 6-8 p.m. in the gym (Building G). For more information, call coach Dick Loescher at (630) 347-5678.

2009 Season

Season Record: 17-13
Conference Record: 8-4

All-Region IV first team: Samantha Abrego (Thornton Fractional North) and Jessica Noble (Oak Lawn)
All-Region IV second team: Kelly Small (Oak Lawn)
All-Tournament team: Noble, Abrego and Ashley Barry (Marist)
All-Conference first team: Noble, Abrego, Small, Barry, and Claudia Kovach (Eisenhower)
All-Conference second team: Natalie D'Ambrosio (Montini)

* Denotes Conference Game

May 6, 2009
Cyclones end their season in playoffs

The start was slow, but by season's end the Cyclones went 13-4 in their last 17 games and were one team away from a trip to the national championship. To end their short season, Moraine Valley battled but came up short against a tough Kankakee team in the NJCAA Region IV playoff tournament.

Region IV playoffs were held May 1 and 2 at Highland Community College where the Cyclones split four games. The team's test of strength came in the final playoff game against Kankakee. The game was scoreless up to the fourth inning when the Cavaliers scored first, and things then began to fall apart with Kankakee winning 6-1. Jessica Noble pitched giving up only two earned runs. The other four were unearned. The Cyclones were able to scatter only three hits. Despite the loss the team brought home a second place trophy. Noble, Samantha Abrego and Ashley Barry were named to the All-Tournament team.

"We were the only team in the tournament that played seven innings with Kankakee, so it was a brave battle. We were just one team away from the nationals," said head coach Jim Knawa.

The Cyclones finished the season with an 8-4 conference record and 17-13 overall season record.

"I think the team really progressed from start to finish. From the beginning we showed improvement in many areas. We started slow, but we ended much stronger," said Knawa. He added that pitching was the team's strength, especially with Noble on the mound. She grew stronger as the season continued and matched it with power at the plate.

Abrego and Noble were selected for the All-Region IV first team and Kelly Small got the nod for the second team. Noble, Abrego, Barry, Small, and Claudia Kovach were named to the All-Conference first team while Natalie D'Ambrosio was selected for the All-Conference second team.

The team also had two players, Abrego and Small, who batted over .400 this season. Abrego batted .494 while Small swatted .456. With those stats Abrego was ranked 25th in NJCAA Division II and Small was ranked 42nd. The duo was also ranked 15th and 27th, respectively for their on base percentage; Abrego was at .556 and Small had a .532.

Game Recaps
May 1-Region IV Semi-Finals @ Highland Community College vs. South Suburban College
Moraine Valley 0    South Suburban 1
The Cyclones dropped the first game in a tight match-up. The athletes had trouble connecting at the plate in this close game that was tied going into the last inning. Noble allowed six hits and the run scored was unearned.

May 2-Semi-Finals vs. College of Lake County, South Suburban College, Kankakee Community College
Moraine Valley 6    Lake County 1
The Cyclones bounced back in game two of the playoffs. The five-run first inning was powered by a lead-off home run by Kovach and a grand slam by Noble. Noble pitched five solid innings and Kovach finished the last two innings without allowing a run. Barry went 3-for-3 on the day.

Moraine Valley 2    South Suburban 1
In a rematch with South Suburban the Cyclones reversed the prior day's loss by handing it back to the Bulldogs. D'Ambrosio and Kovach drove in the runs, while Small had two hits for the game. Noble was the winning pitcher allowing one run on six hits.

Moraine Valley 1    Kankakee 6
After the win over South Suburban, the Cyclones advanced to the championship game of the Region IV tournament with the winner proceeding to the national championship.

April 30, 2009
Game Recap

April 29 vs. McHenry County College
Moraine Valley 4    McHenry 3
The Cyclones opened the quarter final round of the Region IV tournament with a victory. Jessica Noble was strong on the mound to pick up the win. Ashley Barry and Samantha Abrego each had three hits and two RBIs to power the offense.

Moraine Valley 5    McHenry 1
After this second consecutive win against McHenry, the Cyclones advanced to the Region IV semi-finals in Freeport. Pitcher Claudia Kovach completed the sweep of the series, allowing only one run on five hits. Kaitlyn Cachampis provided an offensive spark going 3-for-3 with two RBIs. Ashley Barry and Kovach had two hits each while the defense played flawless ball.

April 23, 2009
Game Recap

April 22 vs. College of Lake County
Moraine Valley 7    Lake County 6
The Cyclones came from behind in the eighth inning to win game one. Ashley Barry's one-out base hit drove in two runs to end the extra inning affair. Both Barry and Jessica Noble had three hits apiece. Noble also allowed only one earned run and six hits in picking up the victory.

Moraine Valley 11    Lake County 14
In a high scoring ballgame, the Cyclones scattered 17 hits and scored 11 runs, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Lancer's 14 runs. Samantha Abrego went 4-for-5 with a home run and six RBIs, while Barry and Noble both went 3-for-5.

April 17, 2009
Game Recap

April 16 vs. Prairie State College
Moraine Valley 11    Prairie State 0
An eight-run second inning helped the Cyclones surge to victory in game one. Jessica Noble continued to improve on the mound after earning her sixth victory while allowing only two hits and striking out four. Kelly Small went 3-for-4 and Samantha Abrego had four RBI's. This was the team's eighth consecutive victory.

Moraine Valley 4    Prairie State 8
Although Prairie State scored eight runs, only four were earned as a result of a couple costly errors. Claudia Kovach pitched well, but took the loss.

April 16, 2009
Game Recap

April 15 vs. South Suburban College
Moraine Valley 11    South Suburban 1
The Cyclones used a 10-run fourth inning to defeat South Suburban in five innings. Every batter in the lineup had at least one base hit. Jessica Noble allowed only 7 hits to pick up her fifth win of the year. Samantha Abrego had 2 RBIs with her fifth home run.

Moraine 8    South Suburban 3
The Cyclones continued their hot streak with their seventh win in a row. Claudia Kovach was the winning pitcher allowing only 1 earned run. Ashley Barry had 3 RBIs while Natalie D'Ambrosio and Abrego each went 2-for-3 at the plate.

April 12, 2009
Game Recap

April 11 vs. Morton College
Moraine Valley 18    Morton 0
The bats came alive for a sweep of Morton. The Cyclones are on a five-game winning streak. In game one Claudia Kovach was the winning pitcher allowing only one hit and striking out six. Kelly Small went 4-for-4 with four RBIs.

Moraine 23    Morton 2
In game two, Jessica Noble picked up the win with offensive help from Small who had four RBIs, Samantha Abrego who went 4-for-4 with two home runs and five RBI's, and Kaitlyn Cachampis who went 4-for-4.
For the season Small is hitting .531, going 17-for- 22 (.772 ave.) in her last six games.

April 10, 2009
Game Recap

April 9 vs. Waubonsee Community College
Moraine Valley 8    Waubonsee 2
The Cyclones played flawless ball and scattered 10 hits in the victory over Waubonsee. Claudia Kovach allowed two runs and struck out seven in picking up the victory. Natalie D'Ambrosio went 3-for-4 with two RBIs.

Moraine Valley 9    Waubonsee 6
The Cyclones improved to 6-2 in the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference after this win. Jessica Noble allowed two earned runs and struck out six. The Cyclones had 16 hits collectively and Samantha Abrego went 4-for-4 with a double. Kaitlyn Cachampis made a stunning two-out catch in centerfield in the seventh inning to secure the win.

April 8, 2009
Game Recap

April 7 @ McHenry County College
Moraine Valley 8    McHenry 11
Although McHenry scored 11 runs, only one was earned as the Cyclones committed six errors. Both Kelly Small and Ashley Barry went 3-for-4 while Claudia Kovach and Natalie D'Ambrosio had two hits each.

Moraine Valley 3    McHenry 1
The Cyclones battled back to win game two�thanks to defensive intensity. Jessica Noble was the winning pitcher allowing only four hits and striking out five. Samantha Abrego went 3-for-4, and Small had two hits plus a superb defensive game at second base.

April 6, 2009
Game Recap

April 3 vs. Joliet Junior College
Moraine Valley 1    Joliet 3
Despite a strong pitching performance by Jessica Noble, the Cyclones were only able to generate five hits during game one against Joliet. Claudia Kovach had two of the five hits.

Moraine Valley 7    Joliet 6
A six-run second inning was enough to help the Cyclones defeat Joliet. Kovach was the winning pitcher. Samantha Abrego had two hits, Caitlyn Cachampis hit a triple to drive in two runs, and Cassie Horbach also had two RBIs.

April 3, 2009
Game Recap

April 2 @ Elgin Community College
Moraine Valley 7 Elgin 3
Led by Samantha Abrego's three-run home run and four RBIs, the Cyclones outslugged Elgin. Every player in the lineup had at least one hit in a 14-hit offensive outburst. Winning pitcher Jessica Noble struck out seven. Claudia Kovach, Kelly Small, Karen Kooyenga, and Cassie Horbach had two hits apiece.

Moraine Valley 1 Elgin 3
With Elgin batting in the sixth inning with two outs, the Cyclones committed three consecutive errors which led to three unearned runs in the 3-1 loss. Claudia Kovach pitched well allowing only six hits, striking out four and walking one. The Cyclones were only able to scatter five hits in the contest.

March 30, 2009
Game recap

March 27 vs. Rock Valley College
Moraine Valley 3    Rock Valley 7
Kelly Small- 2 hits
Claudia Kovach- 1 triple

Moraine Valley 8    Rock Valley 10
The game went to eight innings. Cassie Horbach and Natalie D'Ambrosio had outstanding defensive efforts.
Kelly Small- 3 hits and 2 RBI's
Jessica Noble- 2 hits
Samantha Abrego- 2 hits
Ashley Barry- 2 hits
Sam Salis- 2 hits
Pam Yolich- 2 hits

March 27, 2009
Game recap

March 26 @ Oakton Community College
Moraine Valley 7    Oakton 0
Moraine Valley 7    Oakton 0
Oakton forfeited both games to Moraine Valley.

March 23, 2009
Game recap

March 22 vs. Kishwaukee College
Moraine Valley 4    Kishwaukee 7
Claudia Kovach- 2 hits
Samantha Abrego- 3 hits, 1 homerun
Ashley Barry- 2 hits
Karen Kooyenga- 1 hit, 2 RBI's
Natalie D'Ambrosio- 2 hits

Moraine Valley 1    Kishwaukee 5
D'Ambrosio and Kelly Small turned in a huge defensive effort with eight putouts/assists from their shortstop/second base combination.

March 21, 2009
Game recap

March 20 @ Kankakee Community College
Moraine Valley 3    Kankakee 11
Claudia Kovach- 1 run, 2 hits, 1 double
Jessica Noble- 1 run, 3 hits
Cassie Horbach- 1 hit, 1 double
Ashley Barry- 1 hit, 1 triple, 2 RBI's

Moraine Valley 0    Kankakee 8
Kelly Small-produced the only hit of the game

March 13, 2009
Expectations high for talented squad

The 2009 season begins with high expectations for Moraine Valley's softball team. After a successful run in the 2008 season ending with an Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference Co-Championship and advancing to the Region IV finals, the Cyclones are expecting strong leadership from their returning sophomores for another championship year.

Head coach Aleka Letsos is taking a leave of absence this season after coaching the team since 2006. Her replacement this year is interim head coach Jim Knawa, who also coaches the Cyclones women's soccer team, and new assistant Meghan Gallagher. Both Knawa and Gallagher are excited about the potential talent of this team.

Seven players are returning from last year's 24-9-1 roster. Five of these athletes received post-season honors for 2008: Samantha Abrego (Thornton Fractional North), Jessica Noble (Oak Lawn), Ashley Barry (Marist), Claudia Kovach (Eisenhower), and Janessa Guerrero (Queen of Peace). Abrego was also ranked 13th in 2008 for individual batting statistics in NJCAA Division II with 39 RBIs and a .516 batting average. Other second year players expected to contribute significantly include Natalie D'Ambrosio (Montini), and Cassandra Horbach (Marist).

The incoming class includes Caitlyn Cachampis (Mother McAuley), Jill Gamauf (Chicago Christian), Karen Kooyenga (Chicago Christian), Kelly Small (Oak Lawn), Pam Yolich (Oak Lawn), and Caitlyn Morrin (Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences).

This year's squad is expected to have a nice balance of returning players with experience and talented incoming players. Noble and Kovach are back as starting pitchers, while the Cyclones will rely offensively on Abrego, Barry, and Guerrero.

May 13, 2008
Softball team finishes season on top of conference with a ground out in the regionals

After an exciting season that included a 16-game winning streak, scoring at least four runs almost every game and being ranked ninth in team batting averages in Division II of the NJCAA, the Moraine Valley softball team ended the year at the Region IV finals held in Joliet.

The team played well all season, resulting in a 10-2 record in the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference and 24-9 overall record. Because of identical conference records, Moraine was conference co-champion with the College of Lake County. The Cyclones advanced to the Region IV finals after sweeping Oakton Community College at home April 29 in two games, 4-1 and 11-2. At regionals, May 3, the team lost two games, 4-5 to Lake County and 5-9 to McHenry County, eliminating them from the tournament.

"We did have high expectations for this year's team. We asked one of two goals—to win conference and the other to go to nationals," said head coach Aleka Letsos. "We were also in the top 10 in the nation for team batting average, which is pretty amazing."

Letsos was pleased with the overall season and the strengths her athletes demonstrated this year, while also looking forward to the power her team should have next season. "Our goal is to regroup to win solo conference instead of sharing and go to nationals," Letsos said. "We're very excited for next year. We're only losing three with nine returning sophomores-to-be. With all the veterans and the new kids, we should be a dominating force."

Several players received post-season honors, including first-year students Samantha Abrego (T.F. North), Jessica Noble (Oak Lawn), Ashley Barry (Marist), Claudia Kovach (Eisenhower) and second-year student Megan Stroh (Mt. Assisi) who were all named to the All-Conference First Team while first-year student Janessa Guerrero (Queen of Peace) earned a spot on the All-Conference Second Team. All-Region First Team honors went to Abrego and Second Team to Noble. In addition, Abrego ranked 13 in individual hitting stats in Division II NJCAA this season. Her batting average was .516 with 39 RBIs.

2008 Season Preview
Cyclones look to advance to national tournament

The 2008 season should be a very successful year for the Cyclones' softball team.  After finishing second in conference last year and finishing the season one game away from the national tournament, head coach Aleka Letsos is convinced that her team is even more determined to win conference and advance to nationals this year.

Letsos expects these players will lead the way for a tremendous freshmen recruiting class, including Samantha Abrego (All-Conference and All-Area, Thornton Fractional North High School); Jessica Noble (All-Conference and All-Area, Oak Lawn High School); Ashley Barry (All-Conference, Marist High School); Claudia Kovach (All-Conference, Eisenhower High School); Natalie D'Ambrosio (All-Conference, Montini Catholic High School); Janessa Guererro (Queen of Peace High School); Kelly Jansky (All-Conference, Whiting [Indiana] High School); Stacey Sterkowitz (Andrew High School); and Cassie Horbach (Marist High School).

"We are absolutely loaded with talent this year," Letsos said. "It will be interesting to see which girls step up and really commit themselves to our program. The girls who prove they can get it done in the classroom and on the softball field are the ones who demonstrate they should be in the starting lineup. With such a talented roster, there are no guarantees at this point.

"Teamwork and chemistry also will be very important," Letsos said. "We'll only be as successful as our team unity will allow us, but once that falls into place, many great things will happen for this team."

The 2008 softball media guide will be available soon. Please check back for updates.

2008 Season
Season Record: 24-9-1
Conference Record: 10-2

All-Region IV First Team: Samantha Abrego
All-Region IV Second Team: Jessica Noble
All-Conference First Team: Samantha Abrego, Jessica Noble, Ashley Barry, Claudia Kovach and Megan Stroh
All-Conference Second Team: Janessa Guerrero

* denotes Skyway Conference games

2007 Season
Season Record: 21-16; Conference Record: 7-4

Finished Second in Region IV Playoffs

All Region IV 1st Team: Natalie Wigginton
All Region IV 2nd Team: Annie McEldowney
All-Conference 1st Team: Dawn Garces, Annie McEldowney, Megan Stroh, Natalie Wigginton

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