Audrey Hennings Shines in Lincoln-Way Central Softball Victory

Audrey Hennings, a sophomore at Lincoln-Way Central, displayed her resilience and skill on the softball field in a 7-1 victory over Sandburg during the Class 4A Regional semifinal. Known for her toughness, she delivers outstanding performances both in softball and basketball, showcasing her determination despite a recent injury.

During basketball season, Hennings faced a challenging setback when she collided with a wall and broke her left elbow. This injury sidelined her for six weeks. “I saw it coming, but I couldn’t stop,” Hennings explained. Her strength and dedication proved valuable in the softball game, where she contributed 2-for-4 with a run, stolen base, and RBI for Lincoln-Way Central, whose record stands at seven wins and 28 losses.

Key performances from Jenna Lee, with a home run and pitching victory, along with contributions from Hope Davis and Bridget Barz, helped secure the win. Sandburg’s Samira Matarieh led her team with two hits and an RBI, complemented by Olivia Miele‘s double. In the match, Hennings scored the first run in the third inning and drove in another during the fourth, stating, “Getting that first one sets the tone for the rest of the game.” As the leadoff batter, she focused on contributing to her team’s success.

Her comeback story continued during a WJOL Tournament game where she was hit by a pitch on her previously injured elbow, leading to a four-week absence due to fluid buildup. “It was pretty frustrating,” she noted, emphasizing her eagerness to return to play. Her season statistics reflect her impact, boasting a .403 batting average, 16 runs, and 10 stolen bases.

Lincoln-Way Central’s coach Jeff Tarala praised her, saying, “She’s a tough kid with a great attitude.” Tarala emphasized her grit and skills, noting her quickness and versatility on the field. Her teammate Jenna Lee highlighted their effective collaboration, expressing comfort when pitching with Hennings behind the plate. “We always have a little talk before we go up to the plate,” Lee described their connection.

Despite Hennings’s claims of pre-game nerves, Lee affirmed her consistent confidence, stating, “I never look at her and think, ‘Oh, she’s scared.’” Their mutual trust plays a pivotal role in the team’s dynamics, contributing to Lincoln-Way Central’s spirited performance.