Marist’s Lexi Kyros Shines Despite Loss in State Semifinal

PEORIA — In sports, sometimes performance can outweigh results. Marist junior Lexi Kyros exemplified this during her team’s 2-1 upset loss to Lincoln-Way West in the Class 4A state semifinal game. As a Michigan commit, Kyros demonstrated her prowess, turning a challenging game into a showcase of her defensive skills.

While Marist struggled offensively, Kyros played a pivotal role behind the plate. Within minutes, she executed a perfect throw to eliminate a Lincoln-Way West runner at home, and followed up by catching another trying to steal second base. Kyros’s energy and enthusiasm were evident. “As long as I can keep us throwing the least number of pitches, the better it is for the team,” Kyros commented. “I’ll do whatever it takes to get outs for the team.”

The focus remained on positives even after the upset. Marist’s Ellie Holmstrom, Layla Peters, and Maddie Rogers each delivered two hits, contributing to Marist’s 36-2 season record. On the mound, Wisconsin commit Soleil Tate struck out six, while Abby Brueggmann from St. Xavier earned the win for Lincoln-Way West, striking out four and leaving eight runners stranded. Key defensive plays included a triple by Reese Forsythe and a stolen home base from Reese Rourke.

Though Marist will compete against Oswego in the third-place game, their appearance in the state tournament was significant progress compared to last year’s shortfall at the supersectional round. Kyros reflected, “Getting here was huge. We hoped for the championship game, but it wasn’t meant to be.”

During the game, Marist scored once in the fourth inning with a double by Holmstrom and a squeeze bunt from Alia Rowles. Conditions differed from their earlier victory over Lincoln-Way West, where the RedHawks won with a robust offensive display.

In a critical moment during the third inning, with Lincoln-Way West leading 2-0, Kyros stepped up. After Tate struck out a batter, a wild pitch ensued. Kyros quickly responded with an accurate backhand flip to Tate at the plate. Despite the batter reaching base, Kyros threw her out shortly after, preventing a steal to end the inning.

Teammate Maddie Rogers praised Kyros’s leadership, emphasizing her crucial role. “Even if things don’t go as planned, she’s there to lift us. Without her, the game’s tougher. She supports her pitcher every time.”

Coach Colleen Phelan echoed these sentiments. “Lexi is always focused. Her readiness for every play keeps us in the game. We’re grateful for her dedication and spirit,” Phelan said. Kyros, reflecting on her performance, expressed her desire for growth. “I see areas for improvement. Next year, I aim to do more,” she concluded.

As they prepare for their next match, Marist looks to build on their accomplishments, knowing they have a strong player like Kyros at the heart of their team.