NEWTON, IL -- Newton Eagles' senior, Josie Grunloh has signed her NJCAA Letter of Intent to play softball for the Blue Angels of Kaskaskia College.  Josie will bring an energetic skill set to the infield and the left side of the batter's box. Josie plans on being enrolled in the institution's physical therapy assistant program.  She is the daughter of John and Janet Grunloh of Teutopolis, Illinois.

Miss Grunloh may be small in stature, but she possesses an explosive package of talent.  Speed will be the focal point of her assets, as she has experienced success as Newton's lead-off hitter and short stop.  So far, in Josie's three years at NHS, the Eagles have won 49 games and a conference title in 2017. This multi-sport athlete has been named an All-Little Illini Conference selection in both softball and cross country. Last season, she was also recognized as a Decatur-Herald All-Area softball player. In addition to playing for NHS, she also plays travel ball for the Illiana Dream Seams. As a student, Josie is involved in her school's Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Captain's Club, all while being an honor student.

Coach Barnes believes that Josie can be an immediate impact. "This girl has the opportunity to be that 'jack rabbit' at the top of our order.  She is a gap to gap hitter, who can hit for high average, with slapping ability.  I am extremely excited for her to join Regina Dedecker, Jaidyn Ackerman, Marissa Topp, and newcomer Lauren Brown in the 'lefty' department.  These girls are our table setters and are so valuable in giving the line-up that 'flow' we need to be successful. Also related to her speed, Josie will always be a threat to steal a base and plays a 'dirty' middle-infield. She has the versatility to play the outfield as well, so we will see how she fits in once she gets here, but I am confident that her offense can get her in the line-up. Most importantly, she has all of the intangibles we are looking for.  She is a hard-nosed competitor and hungry to work/learn ...another great fit character-wise, for this institution."

Seated (l-r):  John Grunloh (father), Josie Grunloh (#16), Janet Grunloh (mother)

Standing (l-r): Craig Carr (Newton A.D.), Sara Beam (Newton coach), John Barnes (KC coach), Andrea Cleaver (Newton asst. coach)