True freshman Emma Balkema was dominant in the circle for the first year Grace Christian University softball program, helping the team to the program’s first win. Balkema pitched 15.2 innings and recorded 15 strikeouts including eight in the 9-3 victory over Berea College. She allowed just seven hits and five earned runs over three games of work. Balkema also did some work on the offensive end, going 5-9 at the plate with six runs scored on the week for Grace Christian.
Stats on the week: 15.2 IP, 5 R, 3 ER, 15 K, 7 H
Nominees: Emma Balkema, Grace Christian University; Rachel Eggleston, Mid-America Christian University; Jeri Ellis, Grace College; Emma Heffron, University of Northwestern; Allie Olivarria, Sterling College; Emilee Underwood, Concordia University Ann Arbor