Analysis: Veteran Bennett One of Lincoln-Way Central's Keys to Success

Junior first baseman Kylie Bennett was curious to see how Lincoln-Way Central’s season opener would go Tuesday against Providence Catholic.

The Knights graduated 11 seniors from last year’s team that finished 18-14, so plenty of changes were in order.

“We didn’t really know what to expect because we basically have a whole new team,” Bennett said. “I was a little nervous coming in, but we’re close as a team this year and I think we’re going to do really well.”

If the season opener is any indication of things to come, the Knights should be in good shape.

Lincoln-Way Central cruised to , which returned numerous starters from last year’s 28-win squad. Both teams were playing their first game of the season after numerous postponements due to weather conditions.

The left-handed Bennett is already in her third varsity season and will be counted on heavily for her leadership skills on and off the field.

“I want to unite everybody as a team and bring everyone together,” Bennett said. “I just want to be a leader out there in any way I can.”

Bennett is off to a promising start.

She went 3-for-4 with three RBIs to lead an 18-hit attack by the Knights.

“She has the most experience,” Lincoln-Way coach Steve Paulsen said. “It’s huge for Kylie to have a good season for us. Her swinging and defense today were very good. She’s one of those nice junior leaders to have. She’s going to be a great No. 3 hitter because she puts the ball in play and is going to be a real difficult out. She’s still a junior and she’s still learning.”

As impressive as Lincoln-Way’s hitting was Tuesday, senior Nicole Walshon pitched a strong game as well.

She allowed one run on five hits, while striking out six and walking two.

“She did a nice job of mixing up her pitches today,” Paulsen said. “I thought she did a real good job of getting ahead and that’s real important. That’s key for a pitcher.”

Walshon’s most impressive feat came in the top of the second inning. Providence loaded the bases with no outs, but Walshon induced two force-outs at the plate and a groundout to second base to escape the jam without a run scoring.

Lincoln-Way Central proceeded to score 10 runs in the bottom of the second to take control of the game.

“That got us fired up and ready to go for the next inning,” Walshon said of not allowing a run. “I liked that a lot.”

Walshon relishes her role as the team’s ace this season after being the team’s No. 2 pitcher a year ago.

“It means a lot to me,” Walshon said. “I didn’t get to be (the ace) last year, so it’s nice to know they’re counting on me. I like the pressure.

“I think we’re a lot closer this year as a team and I think we’re going to surprise a lot of people and have a great season.”