Dupage Policy Journal

Illinois Wesleyan University's softball team concluded its season in the Super Regional round of the NCAA Division III Softball Tournament, facing a decisive loss to Linfield University with a score of 11-0. The Titans ended their season with a record of 37-9, while Linfield advanced to the NCAA Division III Softball National Championship, improving their record to 43-5.

Throughout the 2025 season, Illinois Wesleyan achieved significant milestones, including setting a program record with a 25-game winning streak. They became the first team in College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin history to achieve a perfect 16-0 league play record. Additionally, they earned their highest national ranking since 2020 and swept the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Division III Player of the Week awards for the first time.

The game saw Linfield taking an early lead with solo home runs in the first two innings before expanding their advantage with an eight-run third inning. Junior Anna Beckman recorded Illinois Wesleyan's only hit during the game with a single in the fourth inning.

In pitching duties for Illinois Wesleyan, junior Gianna Certa started and finished with a record of 19-3 as pitcher of record. Freshman Ella Hermes, sophomore Mallory Holland, and junior Caroline Gatchell also contributed on the mound.

This match marked the end of collegiate careers for seniors Kennady Estes, Ava Khoury, and Jen Kuhn. These players were instrumental in securing three CCIW Regular Season Championships and three CCIW Tournament titles. They also participated in three NCAA Tournament appearances and helped achieve IWU's first regional championship and super regional appearance since 2019. Khoury leaves as IWU's all-time home run leader while Kuhn leads in doubles and ties Jillian Runyon for most career hits at IWU with 226.