Chambana Sun

Keirys Click, a freshman on the Fighting Illini softball team, was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Week. This recognition follows her significant performance over the weekend, aiding Illinois in securing a series victory against Michigan State. Announced on Monday, April 14, this marks the first time an Illinois player has received a Big Ten softball weekly award since 2022.

Click, hailing from Hobart, Indiana, delivered a stellar performance by going 3-for-8 during the series. She hit two home runs, contributed three hits, three RBIs, and scored three runs. Additionally, she drew two walks and was hit by a pitch over the weekend. The home runs were her second and third of the current season.

Click was instrumental in the team's comeback victory in the series finale, tying the game with a two-out, two-run home run at the bottom of the seventh inning on Sunday. Her two-hit performance in the same game was her fifth multi-hit game and fourth multi-RBI game of the season. She is currently on a five-game streak of reaching base, the third-best on the team and her personal best.

On defense, Click started each game in a different position, showcasing her versatility by playing shortstop, catcher, and second base. She recorded six putouts and three assists during the series.

The last Fighting Illini to be named Big Ten Freshman of the Week was Stevie Meade on March 8, 2022.