McMullen’s softball odyssey taking her from Pike County to state’s capitol to fulfill competitive drive

By Shane Hulsey, Sports Writer | April 1, 2025
Barry Western senior catcher Rachel McMullen frames a pitch during Monday's game against Pleasant Hill in Barry, Ill. | Shane Hulsey photo

BARRY, Ill. — Rachel McMullen’s softball journey began innocently enough. A video of McMullen’s first tee ball at-bat — posted to her X account on March 3 — shows a 5-year-old McMullen hitting the tee with her first swing, but after reloading and taking another hack, making solid contact, dropping the bat and running to…

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Dixon’s double gives Wildcats spark needed to burn out victory against Wolves

By Shane Hulsey, Sports Writer | April 1, 2025
Barry Western junior infielder Emma Dixon loads up for a pitch during Monday's game against Pleasant Hill in Barry, Ill. | Shane Hulsey photo

BARRY, Ill. — Intimidation turned into jubilation for Emma Dixon. And once Dixon provided the spark, Loryn White kept the fire burning. With the Barry Western softball team trailing Pleasant Hill 1-0 with two outs and the bases loaded in the bottom of the first inning on Monday, Dixon strode to the plate for her…

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