Sept. 21, 2007

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - A pair of Illinois infielders earned recognition for their play in the Northwoods League this summer, as Joe Bonadonna was named a Rawlings Silver Glove winner and Brandon Wikoff was recognized as the No. 24 prospect in the league. These honors come on the heels of both Bonadonna and Wikoff earning mention on the league's postseason all-star team.

Bonadonna earned the Silver Glove Award, which is given annually to the league's best defensive player at each position. Bonadonna played all summer at second base for the Duluth Huskies, where he made just seven errors in 68 contests. He also was one of two players to break the NWL record for stolen bases in a season with 45, going 45-for-56 on the basepaths.

Wikoff was named the No. 24 professional prospect in the NWL this summer by Perfect Game Crosschecker. Wikoff played all around the infield for the Madison Mallards, but was regarded by PG Crosschecker for his play at second base. Wikoff hit .323, second-best on the Mallards, with 42 runs and a .406 on-base percentage.

Bonadonna, Wikoff and the rest of the Illini are nearing the end of the fall practice period and will begin the annual Orange and Blue World Series on Sept. 28 at 4 p.m. It will be a five-game series with the other four contests on Sept. 29 after the Illinois-Penn State football game, Sept. 30 at 10 a.m., Oct. 5 at 4 p.m. and Oct. 6 at a time to be determined. The series is open to the public and free of charge.