Richards' Renken Plays Vital Role Behind Plate

Richards senior Kristin Renken is playing a very important role for the Bulldogs this season: starting catcher. She works behind the plate for two great pitchers—junior Brianna LeBeau and senior Kailie Tobin.

“Kris knows that she has a huge responsibility for our team as starting catcher because we have two very good pitchers,” Richards coach Julie Folliard said. “And they can’t be as good as they can be without her working hard every day. I’m really pleased with Kristin Renken.”

Renken caught Brianna LeBeau’s complete game on Thursday, . The victory lifted Richards’ record to 8-0.

“It feels good that we’re winning,” Renken said. “Everyone’s on the same page. We’re all a team, we’re all family.”

Renken was on varsity last season, but this is her first year as starting catcher. She said she’ll most likely be attending Moraine Valley Community College, and she’s leaning toward playing softball. She plans on studying culinary arts.

Folliard said Renken has the talent to play at the next level.

“It’s really hard to find quality catchers, and she’s very smart. She’s in the top of her class,” Folliard said.

Evergreen Park Looking to Turn the Corner

Mustangs coach John O’Connor knows his team is better than the 5-0 loss to Richards indicated.

“We didn’t perform the way I thought,” O’Connor said after his team fell to 7-5 on the season.

Evergreen managed four hits during the game, which included two triples. The Mustangs were unable to drive in those runners.

“We’ll get better as the season goes on,” O’Connor said.