Reese Rourke’s Triumph in the Sectional Championship Game

Friday brought immense joy to Reese Rourke, a standout player for Lincoln-Way West. In her second game back after a season-long absence, Rourke hit two home runs, leading her team to a historic victory. As a senior shortstop, she didn’t just imagine this moment; she achieved it.

“After the first one, I cried a little,” Rourke shared. “After the second, I felt pure joy.” Her happiness was visible when the Warriors secured a 2-1 win over Lockport in the Class 4A Lincoln-Way West Sectional championship in New Lenox. As an NC State recruit, Rourke went 3-for-3 with two homers and a double, contributing significantly to Lincoln-Way West’s 27-7 record. Her teammate Paige Seivert added two hits, and Abby Brueggmann was pivotal in the pitching victory.

Taylor Lane topped Lockport’s performance with three hits, while Giavanna DiCiolla added an RBI single. Bridget Faut struck out four. This sectional title marked a first in the Warriors’ history, giving them a spot against Edwardsville (29-9) in the upcoming Illinois Wesleyan Supersectional.

“Oh, my goodness, we were just exploding in the dugout,” Brueggmann recounted. “Seeing Reese tear up was sad, but it was such a happy moment for all of us.”

Rourke’s remarkable journey started with a setback early in the season when she fractured her wrist. Surgery required a hiatus from the game, but she played defensively until her comeback. During Tuesday’s sectional semifinal win over Lincoln-Way Central, she went 1-for-4 but wasn’t content with her performance.

“I knew something was off,” Rourke reflected. “I watched videos of my hitting, visualizing my success, which helped me significantly.” Her efforts paid off when she hit a home run, followed by a double in the third inning. She then extended the lead with another home run in the sixth, enough for Brueggmann, who pitched bravely and left nine runners stranded.

Interestingly, Rourke initially starred as a pitcher but preferred shortstop, a transition made possible by Brueggmann’s talent on the mound. “I need Abby there,” Rourke stated, smiling. “She really supports us with her pitching.”

Coach Heather Novak expressed her pride in Rourke’s return. “Recalling her injury update in Game 2 was emotional,” Novak said. “Her maturity and dedication never wavered. Seeing her back as the impactful player she is, I’m thrilled for her.”

Reporter Tony Baranek covers sports for the Daily Southtown.