Jillian DeYoung’s Stellar Performance Highlights Hanover Central’s Regional Victory

Hanover Central sophomore pitcher Jillian DeYoung understands the difference between regular season games and playoffs. She recognizes that preparations for a game differ too, and reminders from senior catcher Sienna Stilley, recruiting for Jacksonville State, are helpful.

Stilley noted, “Every postseason warmup, she gets frustrated. I tell her, ‘Relax, it’s not the game yet. You don’t need to force anything.’ Once she’s in the game, she’s loose and composed. Her maturity already shines through, even as a sophomore. She commands the circle like NCAA Division I players I’ve seen. She’s doing great.”

DeYoung showcased her skills during the Northwest Crossroads Conference champion Wildcats’ 5-0 victory against Greater South Shore Conference co-champion Griffith in the Class 3A Hanover Central Regional. She delivered a one-hitter performance with 10 strikeouts and two walks, maintaining a perfect pitch through four innings.

Her contributions extended beyond pitching. DeYoung went 2-for-3 with two RBIs, aiding Hanover Central’s advance to their third regional title in four seasons. Last season, the team reached the Class 3A state championship.

The Wildcats (23-6) ranked No. 10 in the state coaches poll, will face No. 2 Logansport (27-1) in the Twin Lakes Semistate semifinals at 10 a.m. Saturday.

DeYoung expressed her excitement, saying, “It’s fun. I’ve looked forward to this all year because our team knows we have the potential for state. Our confidence reduces stress, making it enjoyable.”

Despite walking sophomore catcher Laney Poppa in the fifth, allowing the No. 12 Panthers (25-3) their first base runner since 2016, DeYoung remained composed. Sophomore left fielder Victoria Nudo achieved their first hit in the sixth, followed by freshman center fielder Jaida Wheatley drawing a walk. DeYoung retired the final four batters, showcasing her skill and determination.

The opposition played well, acknowledged coach Sam Antkiewicz. “Griffith came ready to play. They’re a good team, and DeYoung had to be on her ‘A’ game. She brought her best stuff and thrives in big games. She loves the ball and bat in crucial matches. She stepped up for us. She’s a gamer,” Antkiewicz stated.

After contributing a single in a two-run first inning, DeYoung added a two-run single for a three-run second inning.

Reflecting on the team’s progress, DeYoung said, “Confidence came from knowing we’ve worked hard, especially on our at-bats. Our focus on hitting paid off, preparing for strong pitchers like Camryn Young, who throws hard with good spins. My strategy was simple: swing at anything close and hope for hits. I adjusted for Camryn’s spins, watching the ball and taking my chance.”

Antkiewicz praised DeYoung’s offensive performance too. “When we need crucial hits, she delivers. She initiates momentum and hits hard when in form. She’s a skilled hitter, and we’re fortunate to have her abilities.”

The Wildcats were especially glad to have DeYoung against Griffith after she missed one previous game. Following a shutout against Lowell, shoulder trouble kept her from a 7-5 loss to Griffith.

As DeYoung explained, “Our team wasn’t at its best, but before the game, we discussed and focused. We committed to giving everything into securing the win.”

With DeYoung improving her record to 18-4, posting a 1.35 ERA, 224 strikeouts, and 40 walks in 130 innings, her batting average maintains at .360, including three homers and 31 RBIs.

Her progress as a freshman included a 7-7 record, 1.88 ERA, 165 strikeouts, and 44 walks in nearly 112 innings, batting .362 with four homers and 17 RBIs.

Coach Antkiewicz credits her improvement to strength and persistence. “She’s stronger and smarter about her body, learning from last year. Managing her health better led to hitting her stride at the right moment again.”