Nov. 21, 2008
The University of Illinois is place where dreams become a reality everyday for many student-athletes and coaches. Katie O'Connell lived her dream as a standout second baseman for the Fighting Illini from 2001-04. The Illinois alumna has returned to her alma mater to chase yet another dream, this time as a coach. O'Connell joined the Illinois staff this year after enjoying three successful years as head coach at Casey-Westfield High School, where the Warriors finished as the Class A runner-up in back-to-back seasons. Her memories as an Illini are filled with excitement and success, and she is enthusiastic to add to those memories as a coach at a place she grew fond of as an athlete.
"I loved playing here," O'Connell said. "It's the University of Illinois. It's the Big Ten. It's a great opportunity for me and there's no other place I'd rather be."
She hopes to be able to impact the players and provide them with the same positive experience she benefited from. "Coach Sullivan was probably one of the biggest influences on me in softball just because of her love of the game. I loved everything about playing here under her. With the tradition here and success we had, I look forward to doing the same."
During her collegiate campaign, O'Connell enjoyed a four-year starting role on one of Illinois' most powerful squads. In those four years, she led the team to two consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, advancing to the Sweet Sixteen her senior year, in 2004, when the Orange and Blue also became the most victorious team in Fighting Illini history, raking in 45 wins.
O'Connell left a lasting impression on many during her collegiate career. Her teammates remember her as a leader with an impressive work ethic that is certain to prove effective in her coaching career as well.
"Katie will be a tremendous asset to Coach Sullivan and the Illinois program," former Illini centerfield Sarah Baumgartner said. "She is dedicated, loyal and only knows how to work with 100 percent passion and desire all of the time. As a teammate, Katie taught me so much about the game and she brought the best competitor out in me. She is and always will be a student of the game and will continue to improve and be the best she can be to help Illinois softball win Big Ten and national championships. I am thrilled beyond words for Katie and for the program."
Illinois has been home to O'Connell during many of her greatest achievements in softball, and the former Illini is eager to add to that list of accomplishments at Illinois. The players are also excited for O'Connell's return, realizing the unique qualities she adds to the program.
"It won't take long for OC to make a positive impact on the team," junior outfielder Hope Howell said. "I watched her at camp and her personality makes her relatable to players, and she has a natural ability to explain fundamentals. I doubt anyone will notice we are pushing our limits because OC will make working hard fun."
O'Connell helped build the Illinois softball program from its beginning. Her talent and competitive drive helped her team to leave a legacy, and she's confident in the current squad's ability to do the same.
"This group of players obviously wants to win and want to be the best, and it's easy to coach that," O'Connell said.
O'Connell is ready to relive the success she enjoyed as a student-athlete, from another side of diamond. The Orange and Blue look to continue the tradition this upcoming spring when they open their season on Feb. 6 at the Cathedral City Kick off in Palm Springs, Calif.
