The Illinois Valley Community College softball team is gaining momentum at the right time, pushing its record to 15–8 overall and extending its current winning streak to six games. The Eagles continued their strong play by going 4–0 against four different opponents during the tournament they hosted at Peck Park in Ottawa on April 11–12, further strengthening their position as the postseason approaches.
IVCC has also been competitive in conference play, currently 8–5 in the Arrowhead Conference with four games remaining. With the regular season winding down, the Eagles are focused on maintaining their momentum heading into regional competition.
Pitching has been a major strength for IVCC this season. Softball coach Cory Tomasson states, “Our pitchers are performing very well.”
Shae Simons has posted a 6–3 record with a 3.30 ERA, highlighted by a significant victory this past weekend over the College of Lake County, which currently holds a 28–2 record in the region. Lauren Harbison has also delivered strong performances in the circle, compiling a 6–5 record with an impressive 2.30 ERA. Over the weekend tournament, Harbison dominated opposing hitters, recording 25 strikeouts across two games.
Offensively, the Eagles continue to showcase balance and consistency throughout the lineup. Seven starters are currently hitting above .300, demonstrating the team’s depth and ability to generate runs from multiple spots in the order. Kaitlyn Anderson leads the team with an outstanding .507 batting average, while Ava Lambert leads the Eagles in RBIs with 16.
Production across the lineup has played a key role in IVCC’s recent success and growing confidence.
Tomasson also added, “This entire team is contributing to these wins, and we are hoping to make a long run into the regional tournament.”
With five doubleheaders remaining before postseason play, the Eagles are focused on finishing the regular season strong. Regional tournament play is scheduled for May 1–2, with the regional championships set for May 8–9. Now peaking at the perfect time, IVCC softball looks poised to carry its balanced offense, strong pitching, and total team effort into a deep postseason push.