Wynn Renkes delivered a masterclass in the circle last week, earning her the Sauk Valley Athlete of the Week honors. The Erie-Prophetstown junior was utterly dominant in a 7-1 road victory over Rock Falls, pitching a complete game with a staggering 15 strikeouts and, crucially, zero walks. Command was the name of the game, as she fired 66 of her 84 pitches for strikes. She even contributed at the plate, driving in a run to help her own cause.

We caught up with the standout pitcher to discuss her stellar performance, her journey in the sport, and what drives her.

When asked about her introduction to softball, Renkes credited her father. "My dad definitely is how I got into softball! He’s also what has kept me in it," she said. "He really pushes me and is always catching my bullpens and willing to practice with me!"

That dedication has translated into significant lessons. "I feel like I’ve learned hard work and true friendship from softball," Renkes explained. "It has pushed me to accomplish difficult things and has given me amazing friends who were there for me during good and bad times."

Reflecting on her signature win against Rock Falls, Renkes highlighted a complete team effort. "What stood out to me was how clean our defense was! I think that helped me pitch with more ease and confidence." As for her personal arsenal, her go-to pitch was on point. "What was working best for me was my rise ball! It's always my favorite, but it was working especially well."

Coming into the season, Renkes focused on refining her craft. "I worked a lot on locating and spinning my pitches more than seasons before," she noted, emphasizing that defensive efficiency will be key for her team's success. She's excited about the lineup's potential, stating, "What stands out most is anyone can bring it any day! We are becoming really effective from top to bottom."

Looking ahead, Renkes has clear targets. Individually, she's chasing a major milestone: "My personal goal is to get my 400th career strikeout!" For the team, the ambition is collective glory: "I would love for us to win a regional championship!"

Off the field, she draws inspiration from the Iowa Hawkeyes and a local standout, Katie Cox from Riverdale, whom she calls "one of the most determined and dedicated people I know." Renkes stays busy as a multi-sport athlete, playing volleyball, and is deeply involved in student leadership as class treasurer and a National Honor Society member. She balances it all by cherishing time with what she calls "the most amazing friends."