Jillian DeYoung Leads Hanover Central to Victory in Regional Championship

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Hanover Central’s sophomore pitcher, Jillian DeYoung, understands the distinction between regular-season games and the playoffs. The young pitcher benefits from the guidance of senior catcher Sienna Stilley, a Jacksonville State recruit. Stilley often reminds DeYoung during pregame warmups to stay relaxed. “Every warmup we’ve had in the postseason, she’s gotten frustrated with herself,” Stilley noted. “I remind her, ‘It’s not the game yet, so just relax.’ Once in the game, she’s loose and composed, showcasing maturity beyond her years.”

DeYoung’s performance during Hanover Central’s 5-0 win over Griffith in the Class 3A Hanover Central Regional demonstrated that poise. She threw a one-hitter, striking out 10 batters and walking two, maintaining a perfect game through four innings. DeYoung also excelled at batting, going 2-for-3 with two RBIs, helping her team secure a second consecutive regional title.

Jillian DeYoung waits on deck during the regional championship game against Griffith, June 2, 2026. (John Smierciak / Post-Tribune)

Ranked No. 10 in the state coaches poll, the Wildcats (23-6) advanced to face No. 2 Logansport (27-1) in the Twin Lakes Semistate semifinals on Saturday. “I’ve been looking forward to this all year,” DeYoung said. “Our team knows we have the potential to go back to state, and this confidence makes it fun.”

After walking Griffith’s Laney Poppa in the fifth, sophomore Victoria Nudo collected Griffith’s first hit. Despite this, DeYoung maintained control, retiring the final four batters. Hanover Central coach Sam Antkiewicz praised DeYoung’s performance. “She had to be on her ‘A’ game against Griffith. She loves the challenge in big games,” he stated.

DeYoung’s offensive contributions were crucial. She hit a two-run single that highlighted a three-run second inning. “Our team has worked hard, and our at-bats were on point,” she said. “Facing Griffith’s Camryn Young, we focused on the right batting technique, and I gave my best swing.”

Jillian DeYoung slaps gloves with a teammate during the regional championship game against Griffith. (John Smierciak / Post-Tribune)

Coach Antkiewicz recognized DeYoung’s impact. “She delivers big hits when we need them. She’s a strong hitter and an asset to the team,” he said. The Wildcats valued DeYoung’s return after she missed a game against Griffith earlier due to shoulder discomfort.

DeYoung’s season statistics are impressive: an 18-4 record, 1.35 ERA, 224 strikeouts, and 40 walks in 130 innings pitched. She also bats .360 with three home runs and 31 RBIs. Last season as a freshman, she had a 7-7 record and a batting average of .362. Antkiewicz credited her improvement to strength and understanding her body’s needs throughout the high school season.