JWCC bringing back Illinois vs. Missouri all-star softball doubleheader

QUINCY — After a 10-year absence, the opportunity for high school softball players to engage in a cross-river rivalry exists again.

Kelsey Thompson made certain of it.

The John Wood Community College softball coach introduced the idea of resurrecting the Illinois vs. Missouri all-star game back in March, and her plan comes to fruition Wednesday night when an all-star doubleheader is played at the JWCC field.

The first game is scheduled for 5 p.m. with admission costing $5.

“Just being a new coach in Quincy and not being from around here, I wanted to bring the John Wood softball program back to its roots,” said Thompson, who is from Moweaqua, Ill. “That is one of the best things that is going to bring traction to the college and introduce local talent to our program.

“I want local talent to be like, ‘I want to go to John Wood. That’s where I want to go.’”

Two players who have signed with the Trail Blazers will represent Illinois as Havana’s Hannah Hodgson and Rushville-Industry’s Charlee Gerleman are part of the 20-player squad.

They are just two of several players who have signed to play softball at the collegiate level. Western’s Rachel McMullen is headed to Illinois-Springfield, Pittsfield’s Grace Henry is off to Christian Brothers University, Highland’s Haleigh Winter will play at Quincy University, South Shelby’s Sofia Eleazarrazaz is going to the University of Sioux Falls, and the list goes on and on.

In fact, of the 35 players expected to play in the game, at least 20 are planning to play a sport in college.

“Seeing their overall athleticism shine while playing with the area’s best will be a highlight,” Thompson said.

The original all-star softball showcase — the Senior Softball Salute — began in 2004 and enjoyed a 12-year run under the guidance of Jeff Wellman. Missouri led the all-time series 14-10 when the game went on hiatus after the 2015 event.

In the process of resurrecting the showcase, Thompson leaned on Wellman for advice and assistance.

“He’s been phenomenal and a great resource, just kind of guiding us through it,” Thompson said. “It’s the first year. We decided we’re going to do this regardless of not all the pieces falling into place. We wanted to do it and get it there and give the kids an opportunity. Just like anything, it can always be improved, but we’re doing it.”