Softball ends season at tournament

Elaine Heflin winds up for a pitch. Photo: John Kon

The softball team couldn’t come up with the offensive production it needed Friday and was eliminated from the Horizon League Championship after losing to No. 6 Valparaiso (17-32) and No. 2 Wright State (37-22).

The Flames were first shutout by the Crusaders, 1-0, then dropped a 3-1 game to the Raiders.

UIC’s season comes to a close with a 33-18 record following an 18-5 mark in the Horizon League, which secured the program’s second consecutive and 15th regular season title. The Flames graduate their senior class of Bridget Boyle, Dana Capocci, LaRi Mitchell and Laura Swan.

“I am proud of our players for a great season,” head coach Michelle Venturella said. “Although we fell short today, we fought hard like we always do and gave ourselves opportunities to win both games. Our seniors were tremendous leaders this year and they will be missed. The program took a step in the right direction this year and will continue to be a contender in upcoming years.”

The Flames were limited to just eight hits combined through the two games, with two hits each from Capocci and freshman Lexi Watts. Sophomore Taylor Cairns, juniors Savannah Soppet and Kaleigh Nagle and Mitchell also added to the total. UIC scored just one run, brought in by Capocci.