Chambana Sun

Illinois softball has announced the addition of two new student-athletes, Ady Kiddy and Brooke Stang, to its program. Head coach Tyra Perry shared the news on Wednesday, confirming that both players will join the Fighting Illini for the 2025-26 season.

Ady Kiddy hails from Crystal Lake, Illinois, where she played for Prairie Ridge High School and Illinois Chili Gold. Standing at 5 feet 5 inches tall, Kiddy has been a four-year varsity letter winner. In her junior year, she batted .525 with 52 hits and set a school record with 14 home runs. Her performance earned her All-State First Team honors in 2024. Coach Perry praised Kiddy's versatility: "Adysen Kiddy is the Swiss Army knife of softball. She has the skill and the softball IQ to compete at a high-level at multiple positions." Kiddy expressed her enthusiasm for joining Illinois: "I chose Illinois because it was the perfect fit for me."

Brooke Stang comes from Brookville, Indiana, where she played for Franklin County High School and Beverly Bandits. The 5-foot-8 outfielder was also a four-year varsity letter winner. As a freshman, she batted .529 with 25 stolen bases and broke school records for hits and runs. Stang was named All-State in both 2023 and 2024. Coach Perry highlighted Stang's playing style: "When I first saw Brooke Stang compete, I was immediately drawn to her gritty style of play." Stang cited team environment as a reason for choosing Illinois: "I chose Illinois because I love the environment within the softball team."

Both athletes bring impressive records and skills to their new team as they prepare to contribute to Illinois' future success.