SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Western Illinois softball has seen several key contributions during the 2021 season’s first few games, and two members have now been rewarded. Piper Foote was named The Summit League Softball Player of the Week, while Abby Carlin earned Pitcher of the Week, the league announced on Monday (Feb. 22).
Both players performed exceptionally against Bradley University during a doubleheader sweep last Friday (Feb. 19). This is Foote’s first career Summit League weekly honor and Carlin’s second.
“I am so excited for Piper and Abby!” said WIU head coach Alisa Goler. “Piper had a great showing, especially after getting banged up on a play at the plate. She showed a lot of grit. I do not think this will be the last time we will see her earn recognition this season.
“Abby impressed me all week with her preparation and attention to detail in her workouts. It absolutely showed during game time. She is only to get better as the season progresses.”
Foote picked up a combined four hits, three runs, and three RBIs last Friday. She went 4-6 overall at the plate. In the second win over the Braves, Foote delivered a 2 RBI homer, giving Western a comfortable lead and the only dinger of the day. Carlin received the win on the mound in game one. She retired 11 batters in 7.0 innings while only allowing one earned run. In game two, the Huxley, Iowa native pitched a scoreless sixth inning to help three WIU pitchers combine for a shutout.
Western jumps into tournament play later this week in Conway, Ark. The Leathernecks will participate in the 2021 Michelle Short Memorial Collegiate Classic, hosted by Central Arkansas, from Feb. 26-28.
***Story courtesy of WIU Athletics***
