Lake Central Freshman Leads Team to Sectional Championship Victory

Lake Central freshman Addy Mikolanis stood out as a pitcher in her varsity debut this season, taking on Crown Point twice, including the Class 4A Lake Central Sectional championship game. Although the match was of significant importance between state powers, Mikolanis maintained calm.

“It felt wonderful to be in that environment,” Mikolanis shared. “The defense was reliable throughout. My teammates support me, and Madi Wainwright behind the plate is always reassuring. They encourage me, even if I falter.”

Mikolanis accomplished a remarkable performance, contributing significantly to her team’s win. During the championship game, she pitched five scoreless innings, allowing only two hits and one walk while striking out two. Her efforts helped Lake Central achieve a 3-1 victory against the defending state champions, the Bulldogs.

Lake Central, boasting a record of 27-2 and holding the top position in the state coaches poll, will face Hobart (11-17-1) in the regional tournament on Tuesday. The team had previously triumphed in two Duneland Athletic Conference regular-season games against Crown Point, ranked second with a 24-6-1 record. Last season, the Bulldogs reversed their fortune in the sectional finals.

Lake Central coach Yvette Tovar showed readiness to rely on Mikolanis, who had pitched four innings with two hits during the earlier 9-0 victory on May 12, aiming to prevent a repeat of past results. “She’s been our surprise asset this season,” Tovar expressed. “After playing mostly JV, Mikolanis has shown great potential in off-season games and during JV. Her performance against Crown Point was impressive.”

Tovar said when discussing pitcher readiness with the coaching team, Mikolanis displayed enthusiasm and readiness. “She showed no fear,” Tovar recalled. Despite the pressure on freshmen, Mikolanis performed admirably in a high-pressure environment.

Senior third baseman Tegan Tripp, who scored an RBI single and a solo home run during the game, commented on Mikolanis’ confidence. “Despite initial nerves, Mikolanis was assured in her abilities,” Tripp said. “She depended on defense and encouraged her teammates, maintaining performance even without numerous strikeouts.”

Another freshman pitcher, Colbie Tressel, also made a significant contribution. After junior ace Maddie Such led Lake Central past Munster during the semifinals, Tressel started against Crown Point, allowing one run in two innings before Mikolanis took over. “The opportunity to start meant a lot,” Tressel shared.

Coach Tovar trusted Tressel due to her experience in high-profile games and travel ball, witnessing the young pitcher’s growth this season. “Wainwright and the infield supported her,” Tovar said, with Such prepared to step in if needed. “Our two freshmen performed admirably; Tressel set the stage, and Mikolanis concluded effectively.”

Mikolanis received encouragement from catcher Madi Wainwright during the championship game. Tovar, having Such ready as a seasoned pitcher, relied on her gut feeling. “Such is pivotal for guiding younger pitchers,” Tovar expressed, as Such’s experience motivated and instilled confidence in them. “With this strategy, our team surprised opponents and gained a favorable outcome.”