Friday marked a significant day in the softball journey of Reese Rourke from Lincoln-Way West. After missing nearly the entire season, Rourke’s second game back culminated in a remarkable achievement. She hit two home runs, playing a crucial role in her team’s historic victory.
Senior shortstop Rourke didn’t wish for such a moment; she executed it. “After the first one, I cried a little bit,” Rourke revealed. “I was so happy. After the second one, it was pure joy.” Her expressions spoke volumes after the Warriors secured a 2-1 win over Lockport in the Class 4A Lincoln-Way West Sectional championship held in New Lenox.
Reese, who will attend NC State, went 3-for-3, including two homers and a double, for Lincoln-Way West, which now boasts a 27-7 record. Paige Seivert contributed two hits, with Abby Brueggmann securing the win through pitching.
The title is the program’s first sectional triumph, setting up a showdown against Edwardsville, which stands at 29-9, scheduled for Monday at the Illinois Wesleyan Supersectional.
When Rourke hit her first home run in the bottom of the first inning, emotions ran high. “Oh, my goodness, we were just exploding in the dugout,” Brueggmann said. “Seeing Reese achieve that while tearing up made us happy for her.” Rourke has been a dedicated player, as Brueggmann, her close friend, attested, “Reese is the hardest worker I know.”
Rourke’s comeback journey was nothing short of impressive. Despite starting the season with multiple team records, her progress took a hit when she suffered a wrist fracture during the second game. The injury, which needed surgery, limited her play for several weeks.
Though she batted a few times in May, her offensive play returned only in the sectional semifinal victory over Lincoln-Way Central, where she went 1-for-4 with a double. Unsatisfied, Rourke revisited videos of her previous performances, underlining her commitment to improvement. Her perseverance paid off in her next game, where she excelled.
Her wonderful gameplay continued with a double and a second home run to extend the lead. Despite a challenging game, Brueggmann ensured victory with a steadfast pitch, stranding nine runners.
Notably, Rourke initially led as a pitcher but has since transitioned to shortstop, thanks to Brueggmann’s reliability on the mound. “I want her there—I need her there,” Rourke expressed, appreciating her teammate’s pivotal role.
Heather Novak, the coach of Lincoln-Way West, reflected on the emotional rollercoaster stemming from Rourke’s injury. “My heart broke for her,” Novak shared. She lauded Rourke’s maturity and support for teammates during the challenging period. Rourke’s contribution reaffirmed her status as a pivotal player.