The Illinois baseball team has made history by becoming the most prolific home-run hitting team in program history. With their 92nd home run, the team broke the previous record set by the 1998 team. The record-breaking home run was hit by Vytas Valinicius during a game against Iowa, where they unfortunately lost 10-4.
In other sports news, the road to the state tournament for Class 1A and 2A high school baseball and softball teams has begun with regional quarterfinal games. Additionally, the eighth-grade Blue Ridge Junior High boys’ track and field team and the seventh-grade Fisher Grade School girls’ track and field team both won state titles in their respective categories.
At the University of Illinois, 90 athletes earned degrees during commencement ceremonies at Memorial Stadium in Champaign. The university celebrated the accomplishments of these student-athletes as they move on to the next chapter of their lives.
Looking ahead, there are several exciting matchups to watch, including the Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond vs. St. Thomas More baseball game and the Iroquois West vs. Oakwood baseball game. These games are part of the Class 2A regional quarterfinals and promise to be thrilling contests.
Overall, it’s been a busy and successful time for sports in the area, with records being broken, championships being won, and new beginnings for graduating student-athletes. The excitement and passion for sports continue to thrive in the community.