Members of the Illinois softball team are writing a blog, which will be published throughout the 2018-19 school year. Follow all the action of Head coach Tyra Perry's squad right here on FIGHTINGILLINI.com.

Hey Illini Softball Fans!

My name is Katie Wingerter and I am a sophomore from Prospect Heights, Illinois. I am an infielder/utility and am in the Gies College of Business studying finance.

My journey to becoming a part of the Fighting Illini is a relatively short one when compared to most newcomers - I transferred in from Northern Illinois University this year. It was a quick turnaround - from committing to Illini Softball a month after my freshman year, to applying to the school, moving in and starting practice and classes within the next two months. Although I have had very little time to learn the school and program traditions, fight songs and history, it has been so easy to develop pride in and a love for the school, the softball program and the entire athletic community. I fully understand the responsibility of what it means to wear the Orange and Blue and I become more grateful to do so each day.

Embracing my new family has been so easy and enjoyable that after only one month, I am already able to call them my second family. Everyone has been so welcoming, friendly and helpful. Coach Perry mentioned something last week (at least I think it was her ??) - she said you have to be a great follower before you can be a leader. Everyone in Fighting Illini Softball have been amazing role models and teachers, making it very rewarding to learn from and look up to such a great group. So if any of my teammates or coaches are reading this, thanks for being the absolute BEST!

This weekend we get to open our fall season at home. We play at 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM on Saturday and have two more games at the same times on Sunday. So if you need plans this weekend, you know where to be! (Hint: Eichelberger Field, 1201 W Florida Ave, Urbana, IL 61801). We have shown a lot of talent and energy this past month, so we are definitely going to be a fun team to watch. Personally, my excitement level is through the roof because this will be the first time I get to wear an Illini uniform AND play a game at Eichelberger Field. We really hope to see you there!

 I-L-L

Katie Wingerter