Audrey Hennings Shines in Regional Semifinal Despite Adversities

Lincoln-Way Central High School sophomore, Audrey Hennings, has demonstrated resilience and skill, showcasing her unmatched determination in both softball and basketball. Known for her tough approach, Hennings bravely tackles challenges head-on.

During her basketball season, Hennings sustained a significant injury. ‘I fell and broke my left elbow,’ Hennings recounted. ‘I saw it happening, but I couldn’t stop. It kept me from playing for about six weeks. It was challenging.’

On Thursday, Hennings excelled in the Class 4A Lincoln-Way Central Regional semifinal against Sandburg, contributing significantly to Lincoln-Way Central’s 7-1 victory. Her performance included going 2-for-4 with a run, a stolen base, and an RBI. The team, with a current record of 7-28, saw standout contributions from Jenna Lee, who hit a home run and won as the pitcher, and from Hope Davis and Bridget Barz, each providing two hits.

During the game, Samira Matarieh led Sandburg with two hits and an RBI, while Olivia Miele added a double. Hennings highlighted her team’s performance by scoring their first run in the top of the third inning and driving in Juno Lundquist with a single in the fourth.

“It felt great,” Hennings said. “I was really nervous before the game. My emotions were through the roof. Getting that first one sets the tone for the rest of the game. As the leadoff batter, I have to set that tone and do what’s good for my team.”

Resilience seems to run in Hennings’ family. Her brother, Aiden, a senior defensive lineman at Lincoln-Way Central, has committed to Drake University. Hennings herself has faced numerous hardships. During a WJOL Tournament game on April 1, she was hit by a pitch on her previously injured elbow, causing fluid buildup due to an incomplete fracture healing. This incident sidelined her for another four weeks.

Hennings described her feelings during this time, “After it happened, it filled up with fluid because the fracture wasn’t fully healed, so I was out for another four weeks,” Hennings said. “I was pretty frustrated. I really wanted to play.”

Upon returning, Hennings has been in excellent form. So far this season, she boasts a .403 batting average, with 16 runs and 10 stolen bases. Her coach, Jeff Tarala, appreciates her skills and attitude. ‘She’s a tough kid with a great attitude,’ he said. ‘She gets upset when things don’t go her way, but she’s a strong player behind the plate.’

Teammate Jenna Lee particularly values their partnership. ‘I get so excited when I pitch with Audrey,’ Lee expressed. ‘We synchronize well, and I feel much more relaxed with her presence.’

Lee shared anecdotes about their bond, emphasizing, “We have that connection where she knows where I’m going to throw. She sets up where I need to be set up for. We always have a little talk before we go up to the plate. It’s motivational to know that we have each other’s backs.”

Despite Hennings claiming nervousness before games, Lee disagrees. ‘Audrey can act nervous, but she’s the most confident player on the field,’ Lee remarked. ‘I never doubt her ability to come through when needed.’