Aug. 17, 2009

WATERLOO, Iowa - Hey Illini fans! This is Corey Kimes reporting from Waterloo, Iowa. I've been playing for the Northwoods League's Waterloo Bucks this summer. We've played games nearly every day and traveled to Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota and Canada.

Ilini teammates Mike Giller and Willie Argo are out here with me and doing well. Willie has made some great catches out in center field, while Mike has been on fire at the plate and playing shortstop in the field. He even pitched (and hit 90 mph on the radar gun!) an inning in our last game.

Our season did not go as well as we would have liked, but playing in the Northwoods league has been a great experience. I played with and against great players from all over the country. I enjoyed the experience of being a starting pitcher and had a record of 3-3. Playing at this level and almost every day this summer has helped me to be a stronger player, and helped prepare me for this year's season at Illinois.

I'd like to congratulate teammates Brandon Wikoff, Dominic Altobelli, and Joe Bonadonna on taking their game to the professional level and wish them well.

I can't wait to be back in Champaign...GO ILLINI!
Corey Kimes