HILLSBORO, IL -- Shelby Houchlei has signed her NJCAA Letter of Intent to play softball for the Kaskaskia College Blue Angels.  A multi-sport (basketball) athlete, the Hilltopper will supply just about everything for the much improved D-I JUCO program.  Shelby will be expected to pitch, hit, field, and lead.  Just the usuals, except she does all these, really really well.  As a high honors student, she will study in pre-med courses, towards becoming a Physician's Assistant.  Shelby is the daughter of Josh and Shannon Houchlei of Hillsboro, Illinois.

As of now, Shelby will be joining returning pitchers, Linsey McMillan and Kaitlyn Mills, as well as fellow '20 signees, Ivy Smart and Taylor Weiss. Sarcastically speaking, Shelby's pitching tool box "only" consists of above average velocity and sharp movement in every direction. Considered a power pitcher, she can also spin the ball with accuracy and veracity. Offensively, she profiles as a top of the order hitter with speed, contact consistency, and power. Defensively, she is a middle infielder with soft hands and range.  In addition to Hillsboro High School, she has gained a tremendous amount of experience while playing travel ball, most recently in the Black Widows organization. Shelby credits her start in pitching to Illinois NSA Hall of Fame Coach, Randy Brown, for whom she played for during her younger years on the K&R Lightning travel ball team. For her efforts, Shelby has been awarded All-South Central accolaides. Academically, Shelby carries an astonishing 4.12/4.0 GPA, earning her National Honor Society recognition. She is also involved in Student Council, Interact Club, Student Government, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Coach Barnes is eager to get Shelby and her classmates in a Blue Angel's uniform.  "Let me first say, what a great group of recruits and returners! Now add Shelby into that mix, and it's hard not to get ahead of myself!  I feel like Shelby's potential impact is almost limitless. I have known her for several years now and I can testify to three things...Her talent is unquestionable, her mentality is fierce, and she is as good a person as she is a ball player. As proven as she has been, I know that she embraces hard work and will be ready to compete with her teammates to earn a spot.  Although, I don't think it will take long before she becomes a leader with her voice and by example. With all the talent we plan to have, a person like Shelby will help push everyone to get better."

Seated (l-r):  Josh Houchlei (father), Sadie Houchlei (sister), Shannon Houchlei (mother), Shelby Houchlei (#11), Randy Brown (K&R Lightning coach)

Standing (l-r):  Brandon Flanigan (Black Widows coach), Brett Tuetken (Hillsboro coach), John Barnes (KC coach)