By Nicholas Huenefeld/Owens Sports Information
Toledo, Ohio---Mackenzie Rieck, a 5-6 third baseman/catcher from Lakota East High School in Liberty Township, Ohio, has signed a letter of intent to play softball at Owens Community College next year.
"Mackenzie has a big bat with a lot of power," said Owens Community College head softball coach Marcus Smith. "She is a very vocal player, and I expect her to be a leader for our team."
As a junior, the Cincinnati, Ohio native earned Second Team All-Greater Miami Conference (GMC) honors as a catcher. In 25 games, Rieck hit. 333 with 66 at bats, 16 runs, seven doubles, three home runs and 21 RBI.
As a sophomore, Rieck appeared in 29 games and hit .473. She produced 23 runs, eight doubles, one triple, three home runs, 30 RBI and two stolen bases. Following the season, she was named Second Team All-GMC.
For her efforts, Rieck was named the team's most improved player under the tutelage of head coach Steve Castner. Academically, she is an honor roll student.
Rieck becomes the 11th member of next year's recruiting class. She joins Noel Gilley (RHP/1B) of Ashley Ridge High School in Summerville, S.C., Courtney Cadle (SS) of Monroe High School in Monroe, Mich., Josie Monroe (C) of Anthony Wayne High School in Whitehouse, Ohio, Alexa Schmeltz (3B) from Eastwood High School in Pemberville, Ohio, Mikayla Ludwig (RHP) of Walter Wellborn High School in Anniston, Ala., Ronni VanSteenkiste-Amador (Util.) of Blissfield High School in Blissfield, Mich., Oliviah Banister (IF) of Wauseon High School in Wauseon, Ohio, Megan Ewing (Util.) of Norwalk High School in Norwalk, Ohio, Lindsay George (IF) of Elmwood High School in Bloomdale, Ohio and Kayleen England (Util.) of Seneca East High School in Attica, Ohio.
The Owens softball team, which captured Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) and Region XII championships last year en route to a National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II National Tournament appearance, will open its 2016 season March 4-13 in Florida. They are scheduled to play 20 games during the trip.
Notes
For a look at the full 2016 Owens softball schedule, visit here