Illinois Valley Times

Streator High School’s Maggie McGurk took a circuitous route in making her college decision.

She originally signed with Eastern Illinois University (EIU). But just a few months later, EIU changed coaches.

For McGurk, this change was a blessing in disguise, according to Streator Coach Kelly Coons.

"I think she just realized that the new EIU coach coming in -- who did not recruit her -- may have had a different vision and it just didn't feel like a good fit anymore," Coons told the Illinois Valley Times. "She started pursuing other leads and visited the University of Toledo and felt that the campus, the coach and the softball facilities were a great fit for her."

With her decision to become a Rocket etched on paper, McGurk has been working hard for her senior season. Already, she has contributed mightily to Streator’s success the past three seasons.

McGurk earned 3A third-team all-state, first-team all-area, and Times Player of the Year after hitting .389 and recording a 1.72 ERA as a junior; she has recorded 528 strikeouts in 413.7 innings of work in her three seasons as a starter on the mound.

In addition, McGurk has recorded a 48-16 record with a 1.81 earned run average. She is dangerous at the plate, as well, with a career batting average of .402, seven home runs, 71 RBI and 16 stolen bases.

"Maggie is well-respected by her teammates because of her work ethic, skills, passion for the game and leadership skill," Coons said. "She has always been cognizant of the fact that softball is a team sport, and she is very supportive and encouraging to players in the whole program. Maggie is very competitive, and when she is in a game, she is focused and determined."

Coons expects McGurk to be even more focused and determined considering it's her senior season. Coons also likes the fact that McGurk can provide plenty of offense.

"I foresee her being dominant in the circle and hope to have her on base a lot -- or have runners on base, so she can drive them in," Coons said. "She is a tough out in the batter's box. She sees pitches well and attacks good pitches with power."

Coons said it was difficult to find a weakness in McGurk’s game.

"I would have to say she is probably too hard on herself," Coons said.

In a recruiting profile, McGurk outlined her goals.

"As I get older, I realize that people need to work hard for what they want," she wrote. "I am one of those people who are willing to put in time to get better at what I do, whether it's pitching, hitting, defense or my academics. The collegiate goals I have are to major in something medical/health-related and to become the best player I can be for the team."