Lincoln-Way West Advances to State Final with a Key Victory

PEORIA — In a match filled with emotion and tension, Lincoln-Way West’s senior right-hander, Abby Brueggmann, experienced one of the most significant achievements in her high school pitching career. After leading her team to a 2-1 victory over Marist in a Class 4A state semifinal, Brueggmann wiped away tears, a mix of sweat and emotion.

Speaking about her performance, Brueggmann expressed the internal validation this win brought her. “Sometimes, I doubted my ability to pitch in these types of games,” she shared. “It feels great to prove that both our team and I are capable.”

Brueggmann’s performance was crucial on Friday, guiding Lincoln-Way West to a notable upset against Marist at Louisville Slugger Sports Complex in Peoria. The St. Xavier recruit managed four strikeouts and left eight runners stranded, contributing to the team’s 29-7 record. Teammates including St. Ambrose recruit Reese Forsythe, with a pivotal triple, and NC State commit Reese Rourke, who stole home, also played critical roles.

Lincoln-Way West’s Abby Brueggmann prepares to pitch against Marist during a Class 4A state semifinal at Louisville Slugger Sports Complex in Peoria on Friday, June 5, 2026.

Marist, ending their season with a remarkable 36-2 record, saw impressive performances from players such as Maddie Rogers, Notre Dame recruit Layla Peters, and Saint Louis recruit Ellie Holmstrom, each contributing two hits. Additionally, Wisconsin commit Soleil Tate struck out six.

The win advances Lincoln-Way West to face Mundelein for the state title. Brueggmann expressed enthusiasm for the challenge ahead. “We’ve got strong leaders, especially among the seniors. We overcame the toughest team and are focused on finishing strong.”

Earlier in the season, Marist defeated the Warriors 11-5, marking them as the favorites for the rematch. However, Lincoln-Way West embraced an aggressive and loose approach, believing they had nothing to lose. “With each inning, as we kept winning, the pressure seemed to mount on them,” Brueggmann noted.

Despite ample scoring opportunities for Marist, Lincoln-Way West held them to a single run, which came from an RBI squeeze bunt following a double by Holmstrom. Conversely, Lincoln-Way West capitalized early, scoring in the first on a double steal and again in the third, thanks to Forsythe’s triple.

Lincoln-Way West’s Abby Brueggmann watches as her pitch against Marist during a Class 4A state semifinal at Louisville Slugger Sports Complex in Peoria on Friday, June 5, 2026.

Brueggmann frequently faced runners in scoring positions but remained composed. “They hit well, really putting pressure on us,” she admitted. “Escaping those innings with runners on is something our defense excelled at.”

In crucial moments, Brueggmann delivered. She struck out a batter with a runner on second to end the fifth inning and secured the victory with another strikeout in the seventh as a runner stood on third.

Reflecting on the game, Forsythe said, “I wasn’t concerned with how we ended it — I simply wanted to finish,” relishing their success together. “Abby and I have a remarkable connection. We always remain supportive, and she knows the defense is behind her strength.”

Lincoln-Way West coach Heather Novak praised Abby’s resilience and reflected on her development over the years.

With Lincoln-Way West coach Heather Novak at the helm, Brueggmann’s growth has been evident. “Abby has faced formidable lineups, and Marist’s is no exception. Her confidence in herself and reliance on her teammates have been truly rewarding to observe,” Novak remarked. Amidst a challenging postseason filled with tight games and decisive pitches, Abby and her teammates have consistently delivered.

Tony Baranek reports for the Daily Southtown.