Richards' LeBeau, Jenkins Sign to Play Softball in Collegiate Ranks

Wednesday. Some like to think of it as get-over-the-hump day.

Richards softball coach Julie Folliard called it a day of celebration for the families of her two most gifted players.

Brianna LeBeau and Hannah Jenkins signed national letters of intent last Wednesday to play in the collegiate ranks next school year.

LeBeau, Richards’ ace pitcher and the reigning Gatorade Softball Player of the Year in Illinois, is headed to Northwestern. Jenkins, a shortstop who earned a spot on the Illinois Coaches Association all-state team, cast her lot with Loyola.

The two seniors are honor roll students and diamond gems, too. They teamed to lead Richards to a 32-3 record last spring. The Bulldogs won conference, regional and sectional championships.

LeBeau returns to the fold after posting a 25-3 record with a 1.04 ERA. She struck out 176. She also batted .516, scored 46 runs and racked up 56 RBIs.

“Brianna (LeBeau) should be proud of the dedication, courage and discipline demonstrated over the years to achieve excellence in the classroom and on the softball field,” Folliard said in a news release.

Jenkins will be back for an encore performance after hitting .417 with eight homers and 38 RBIs. She also had seven doubles and scored 36 runs.

“I am proud of the roles Richards and the Bulldogs softball program have played in her success and wish her strength and focus as she continues her pursuit of excellence in all aspects of her life,” Folliard said.