Behind the Shield | Lauren Wiles

 Hey Illini Fans!
 
My name is Lauren Wiles, and I am a junior pitcher from Greenville, N. C. This past weekend we got the opportunity to compete in the Mary Nutter Collegiate Classic out in Cathedral City, Calif. This was an incredible opportunity to compete against the best of the best while also playing in front of hundreds of little girls who dream of playing college softball. This team is really starting to grow together each time we step foot on the field. Something that this team has continued to show is that we fight until the last pitch is thrown, no matter the outcome. Going 2-2 on the weekend wasn't the outcome we wanted, but this team is focused on our process and the bigger picture ahead.
 
I am super excited for the future of this team and our ability to compete at the highest level against any opponent. This week at practice we are looking to focus on our "winning a pitch" mentality and continuing to sharpen up our skills. As we head down to Baton Rouge, La., this weekend to compete in the Purple and Gold Challenge hosted by LSU we are looking to pick up some key wins.
 
Each game gets us one step closer to our home opener on March 13th vs. Mizzou. Hope to see you all soon at Eichelberger Field!
 
I-L-L

Lauren Wiles #30