SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The past three seasons for Sacred Heart-Griffin were not to the standard expected from the Cyclone softball program.
In 2022, SHG ended their season with a 24-6 record, but were eliminated in the regional round of the IHSA playoffs. At the time, 12-year head coach Al Yoho had led the team to several strong postseason performances, including 4th and 3rd place finishes at state in 2015 and 2016.
Following his departure for his role as an assistant with the Lincoln Land softball program, the team went a combined 32-45 from 2023 through 2025.
This year, with the promotion of Scott Stotlar from assistant to head coach, SHG is experiencing a return to form.
"[We're] just focusing on the little things, trusting the process," Stotlar says. "They've really learned to play for each other and it's led to a lot of wins."
Through the first half of their season, the Cyclones shot out to a 15-2 start, largely thanks to their performance at the plate. Sacred Heart-Griffin has scored 134 runs in 17 games, while surrendering just 45.
"It's very exciting and we're all like just so proud of all of our teammates," says Felicity Keller, a senior outfielder. "We're just so happy that we're finally back up and we can compete with the hard teams and hang with them."
Stotlar's impression on the team with his promotion was immediate. He emphasized the importance of a strong foundation for the team culture. He also helped the program and school make necessary upgrades to the softball park on SHG's west campus. Players welcomed the coaching change. Having the chance to be led by someone they were already familiar with had a large amount of upside in their eyes.
"I was a little surprised," says junior pitcher Kenzie Wieland. "We were told that we were going to have a couple different coaches, and then they were like, 'Oh, Scott's gonna be your coach.' And we were like, 'What? That's awesome.'"
The previously established connection is something Stotlar feels has benefited the Cyclones this season. Through the preseason and early games on the schedule, a mirrored level of respect between the staff and players has translated to wins on the field.
"Building relationships the last couple of years and then continuing those relationships is always important," Stotlar says. "So then you care and then they will play hard for you hopefully."
While the regular season is half over, SHG has their sights set on finishing near the top of the Central State 8 conference. The Cyclones are aware that a win against teams like Glenwood and Rochester is never guaranteed. With that said, Sacred Heart-Griffin has already competed against each, falling to the Titans, 5-0, but responding against the Rockets with a hard-fought 5-4 win.
"Can't look ahead too much," Coach Stotlar says. "We've got more tough teams coming up in conference, but we're focusing on one game at a time and one pitch, one inning at a time."
The Cyclones have not clinched a regional title in the softball postseason since the 2021 campaign. While the competition in the Springfield area is fierce, confidence can play a huge role in the momentum of a team through a long season.
Behind a renewed sense of family in the dugout and a team hungry to taste success in the playoffs, SHG could very well see their winning ways continue as they enter into May.
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