CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Illinois softball Head Coach Tyra Perry announced the addition of Mallory Sluder to Illini softball's Class of 2023 on Thursday. Sluder marks the fourth addition to the Illini program for Coach Perry.

CLASS OF 2023 ILLINI SOFTBALL SIGNEE

Mallory Sluder // Greensboro, Alabama // Southern Academy // RHP // 6-2
Notes: Two-time state champion… Tallied 334 strikeouts in 2020-21 and 338 strikeouts in 2021-22… Named the 2020-21 AISA Pitcher of the Year and Player of the Year… Earned all-district honors from 2020-22… Two-time MVP from 2020-22… Named the West Alabama Super 9 MVP... Hobbies include fishing... Lists Lauren Chamberlin as her favorite athlete.

Coach Perry on Sluder: "Mallory's personality is infectious both on and off the field. Her potential in the circle is limitless and she is dedicated to working hard to become the best in the Big Ten. She and Coach Vann had an immediate connection that was undeniable. We are all so happy she chose Illinois."

Why Illinois?
"When I first stepped out of the car and onto campus, I felt a calmness go over me and I knew that it was going to be home one day. The staff and players are amazing. I can't wait to call Illinois home."