Hanover Central’s Jillian DeYoung Shines as Wildcats Win Regional Title

Hanover Central sophomore Jillian DeYoung understands the difference between the regular season and playoffs. She acknowledges the uniqueness of pregame rituals compared to the actual games. A gentle reminder from senior catcher Sienna Stilley, a Jacksonville State recruit, aids her mindset. Stilley shared, “Every warmup in the postseason frustrates her. I always tell her to relax, as it’s not the game yet. But in the game, Jillian appears loose and composed, displaying maturity beyond her years. She commands the circle like seasoned NCAA Division I players.”

DeYoung’s performance during the Northwest Crossroads Conference champion Wildcats’ 5-0 triumph over Greater South Shore Conference’s co-champion Griffith in the Class 3A Hanover Central Regional was indeed impressive. She achieved a one-hitter with ten strikeouts and two walks, maintaining perfection through four innings. Her contribution wasn’t limited to pitching; DeYoung went 2-for-3 with two RBIs, leading Hanover Central to secure its second consecutive regional title and third in four seasons.

Hanover Central’s record stands at 23-6, earning them the No. 10 spot in the state coaches poll. They are scheduled to compete against No. 2 ranked Logansport (27-1) in the semifinals of the Twin Lakes Semistate at 10 a.m. Saturday.

“Playing is enjoyable,” DeYoung expressed. “I anticipated this all year, as our whole team feels capable of returning to state. Our shared confidence reduces stress and increases the fun.”

DeYoung appreciates the defense supporting her, referring to them as a “brick wall.” She walked sophomore catcher Laney Poppa at the fifth inning’s start, providing No. 12 Panthers their first runner in their first regional since 2016. Sophomore left fielder Victoria Nudo collected Griffith’s first hit in the sixth, while freshman center fielder Jaida Wheatley secured a walk with two outs, before DeYoung retired the final four batters.

Hanover Central coach Sam Antkiewicz credited Griffith’s competitive spirit: “They are a strong team, and Jillian needed her best performance, which she delivered. She thrives in high-stakes situations, with ball or bat in hand. She’s a gamer, stepping up when it counts.”

After singling in a two-run first inning, DeYoung delivered a two-run single during a three-run second. “Confidence in my team and self was high, knowing our hard work prepared us well. Our focus is on at-bats, aware of Camryn Young’s formidable pitching. Anything close, I swing away, aspiring for a hit.”

Antkiewicz praised DeYoung’s offensive prowess: “She delivers key hits unexpectedly, igniting momentum. She hits hard, evident when properly connecting. Her batting strength adds value.”

DeYoung’s presence was crucial against the Panthers this time around. Post her shutout versus Lowell on April 22, she mentioned shoulder discomfort, causing her to skip the subsequent 7-5 loss to Griffith. “Our team wasn’t at its best then,” she admitted. “Ahead of this game, we ensured focus, committing wholeheartedly to avoid defeat.”

DeYoung now boasts an 18-4 record with a 1.35 ERA, and 224 strikeouts, maintaining a batting average of .360, alongside three homers and 31 RBIs. In her freshman year, she had a 7-7 record and 1.88 ERA. Coach Antkiewicz acknowledged her growth: “Her strength and understanding of her body and the high school season rigors have improved. Lessons from last year ensured her preparedness for this season, hitting form optimally.”