By Ryne Turke
After setting a program record for wins and claiming the Midwest Conference regular season title, the Lady Blues will host the MWC Tournament on May 8 and 9, with a chance to turn a historic season into a championship one.
If you ask sophomore outfielder Ezzy Mauermann, the formula isn’t complicated.
“We don’t just play as one team,” Mauermann says. “We play as one family.”
That identity has become the backbone of a team that finished the regular season with 30 wins and a perfect 10-0 record at home. It’s a group that doesn’t rely on one star, but instead gets the most out of every player on the roster.
“Our team is dangerous because we’ve learned how to win by fully buying into our roles and trusting each other,” Mauermann shares. “Whether we’re on offense or defense, we pick each other up and compete for one another. That starts in practice.”
That daily standard has translated into game day execution. I’ve witnessed firsthand how loud and energetic the Illinois College dugout can be. Even in tight moments, it’s that bond that has propelled the Lady Blues to a memorable season.
Junior infielder Maddie Adams points to a defining moment early in the season that helped shape the team’s trajectory.
“Spring break in Florida,” Adams starts, “We played really strong competition, including defending national champion Trine University, and held our own. It wasn’t just about the games — it was the time together. After that trip, we knew we had something special.”
Under second-year head coach Samantha Mendez, Illinois College has continued to build on an already strong foundation, evolving into one of the Midwest’s premier programs.
“Former coach Meghan Roman, now [IC] director of athletics, built such a winning culture here,” Mendez says. “I challenged the girls to not only win the conference, but to earn national recognition. They’ve bought into that.”
The results speak for themselves. Illinois College boasts what Mendez calls “one of the top pitching staffs in the country,” anchored by senior Jordan Closs, who has compiled more than 25 wins and a sub-2.00 ERA over her two seasons as a Lady Blue.
Senior Kendall Cole, coming off a First Team All-Conference season, serves as the team’s on-field voice.
“She’s as selfless as they come,” Mendez shares. “There’s no one else like Kendall Cole.”
Cole understands the importance of leadership, having seen previous classes set the tone for the program’s sustained success.
“We’ve worked really hard to create an environment that’s fun but also competitive,” Cole says. “The younger players are hungry — they want it. I have no doubt future teams will continue the legacy and pave the way for the next classes. Coach Mendez is always pushing us to improve and be our best.”
The Lady Blues are currently riding their hottest streak of the season, going 14-1 in April, with nine of those victories being shutouts.
If there’s one clear advantage Illinois College carries into the weekend, it’s home field.
Kamp Field, the largest in the conference, presents unique challenges for opponents, like deep fences, a spacious outfield and a true dirt infield. Mendez says the Lady Blues have learned to use it to their advantage.
Expect a packed house on the Hilltop as Illinois College will welcome the top teams in the conference in a round-robin style tournament.
For a complete look at the schedule and broadcast coverage, visit illinoiscollegeathletics.com.
