West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University has announced the addition of seven new student-athletes to its softball program for the 2025 season. The group includes Kaedence Becker from Gardner, Kansas; Hallie Gibson from Carlinville, Illinois; Alexis Jokisch from Shelbyville, Illinois; Kaydi Miller from Havana, Illinois; Makenzie Mowery from Johnston City, Illinois; Mackenzie Turney from Blue Springs, Missouri; and Ava Wagner from Red Bud, Illinois.

Each athlete brings experience and achievements in high school and travel softball. Ava Wagner was a three-time ISCA 2A All-State selection and earned multiple academic honors at Red Bud High School. She said she chose Western because of "the team atmosphere and coaches—it feels like a place I can see myself grow."

Kaydi Miller joins after earning several All-Conference and All-State honors in both softball and basketball at Havana High School. She holds her school's home run record and is a two-time Senior League World Series champion. Miller said, "Western felt like another home. The coaches were so welcoming and it's close to family."

Kaedence Becker comes from Gardner Edgerton High School in Kansas as an outfielder recognized with All-State and All-League honors. She cited "smaller class sizes and supportive coaching staff" as reasons for choosing Western.

Alexis Jokisch played catcher and corner infielder at Shelbyville High School, receiving First Team All-Conference recognition all four years. Recalling her time at Alliance Nationals, she described "making the Elite Eight at Nationals" as her most memorable moment. Jokisch added that WIU felt right for her development "as a student and a softball player, especially with the amazing coaching staff."

Makenzie Mowery arrives after earning multiple regional awards including All-County Co-Player of the Year at Johnston City High School. She also competed in basketball. Mowery said Geri Ann Glasco inspired her by teaching that "success isn't just about talent—it's about hard work, attitude, and love for the sport." On choosing Western, she stated: "From the first time I talked with Coach Goler and Collin, they showed genuine interest in me as both a person and an athlete. It felt like home."

Mackenzie Turney is a pitcher/first baseman who earned Academic All-State recognition three times while playing for Blue Springs High School in Missouri. She also received NFCA All-American Academic honors along with on-field awards such as 2nd Team All-District pitcher. Turney explained: "I absolutely loved the coaches and their mentality on hard work, but also knowing we are all human. I saw an atmosphere where I could develop into the best player and person I can be."

Hallie Gibson joins as a right-handed pitcher from Carlinville High School with First Team and Third Team All-Conference honors plus Second Team All-State recognition. A highlight was reaching 500 career strikeouts celebrated by teammates on the field. Gibson noted: "I really liked the small town feel and the coaches seem like a real support system for success."

Head coach Alisa Goler commented on this year's recruiting class:

"This signing class is phenomenal. It may be the best overall class we have added in our time here. All of these young women are quality human beings, talented softball players, and excel academically in the classroom. We know that they'll immediately add to our culture & improve our depth. We can't wait to have them next August!"

The new recruits are expected to help strengthen Western Illinois' roster next season.

For more information about Leatherneck Softball or updates about the team visit GoLeathernecks.com or follow their social media accounts.