Freshman Addy Mikolanis Leads Lake Central to Victory in Sectional Championship

Lake Central freshman Addy Mikolanis has been a key player in her two varsity appearances this season, both against Crown Point, including the Class 4A Lake Central Sectional championship game. Despite the high stakes, Mikolanis felt comfortable in the competitive setting.

It felt really nice just to be in that environment, she said. The defense had my back the whole time. They were always there for me. I know my teammates have my back, and I know I have Madi Wainwright behind the plate. They’re always there for me, picking me up even if I don’t perform well.

Mikolanis showed her skills, pitching five scoreless innings, allowing merely two hits and one walk. She struck out two batters, helping her team edge past the defending state champion Bulldogs with a 3-1 victory. Lake Central, ranked No. 1 in the state coaches poll, will face Hobart in a regional matchup soon.

Lake Central coach Yvette Tovar expressed confidence in Mikolanis, who had pitched four strong innings during a prior 9-0 victory. I feel like she’s our dark horse this season, Tovar stated. She played a lot of JV ball and held it down against Crown Point for four innings. When I asked the coaches and the pitchers who felt ready, she said, ‘Let’s go.’ She’s bought in, no fear. Being a freshman at Lake Central, stepping into the circle involves nerves, but she performed well.

Senior third baseman Tegan Tripp, a Virginia Tech recruit, noted Mikolanis’ confidence. She was nervous, but she was confident, Tripp said. Her defense had her back, and she did an excellent job giving her infield ground balls to field for outs.

Junior ace Maddie Such, a Kentucky recruit, led Lake Central past Munster in the semifinals. Freshman Colbie Tressel, who began the game against Crown Point, allowed a run in two innings before Mikolanis took over.

Getting the start meant a lot, Tressel shared. Winning felt great, knowing my coach trusted me in the moment. I was nervous, but my team had my back.

Tovar expressed trust in Tressel’s abilities. She’s started many high-profile games, Tovar said. The confidence is always there. The infield supported her throughout.

Tovar noted how, despite having Such ready, the two freshmen excelled. Lo and behold, my two freshmen held it down, Tovar stated. Tressel set the table, Mikolanis brought it home.

Such was ready to step in if needed. I talked to Such too. She’s like the captain of our pitchers, giving them the drive and confidence, Tovar explained. Such’s experience offered guidance to the younger players, bringing them confidence to handle pressure situations.