Leah LowryPage Title

Whether it’s a game-winning play or staying late after practice, Triton College softball star Leah Lowery of Chicago consistently shows dedication, leadership and endurance – qualities that have earned her April Athlete of the Month honors, an achievement she’s grateful to receive.

Lowery, a starting pitcher and outfielder, finished the regular season batting .340 with four home runs and 31 runs batted in. In the circle, she led the team with a 12-3 overall record and a 2.93 earned run average, striking out 83 batters heading into the postseason.

“I feel like all of my hard work has paid off,” Lowery, a freshman, said.

Lowery discovered her love of softball in kindergarten and continued northing that passion throughout her years Fenwick High School. After high school, she chose Triton College after meeting softball coach Kenneth M. Jurasz Jr., or “Coach Ken” and immediately felt at home with the team’s chemistry and camaraderie.

“I definitely didn’t know what to expect when I came to Triton,” Lowery said. “I knew that I was playing JUCO softball and it was going to be a lot of work. I’ve noticed a big change in my work ethic.”

Balancing roles as both pitcher and outfielder, Lowery focused on “one thing at a time,” staying present and disciplined. 

This season, Lowery reached her biggest accomplishment—recording 100 strikeouts while continuing to contribute offensively.

She recalls one of her toughest challenges: a tight matchup against Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove. With great determination and energy, Triton ultimately secured the game.  

“Coach Ken is an exceptional coach,” she said. “He has good connections and knows the game like the back of his hand. He wants our team to succeed and trains us very hard. It was difficult adjusting at first, but it has made me a better softball player.”

After graduating from Triton, Lowery hopes to continue playing softball at a four-year institution. She admires Karlyn Pickens, a standout right-handed pitcher for the University of Tennessee’s softball team and hopes to emulate her career.

“Triton’s coaching and instruction have helped me grow in a sport I absolutely love,” she said. 

Learn more about Triton Athletics at tritonathletics.com.