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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 Cyclone 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 Cyclone 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
Cyclone 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
Cyclone 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 Cyclone 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 Cyclone 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 RBI’s, 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 RBI’s 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 RBI’s 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 RBI’s.

Moraine 23    Morton 2
In game two, Jessica Noble picked up the win with offensive help from Small who had four RBI’s, 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 RBI’s.

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 RBI’s.

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 RBI’s, 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.

2007 Softball Media Guide

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