PEORIA, Ill. (WCIA) — For the first time ever, Leroy softball was playing for a chance to win a state title.

The Panthers fell 10-0 to Carrollton in Saturday’s 1A championship, bringing their historic season to an end.

Leroy ends the season with an impressive 35-6 record, including a remarkable 19-game winning streak during the regular season. This senior team has returned to the state competition after securing third place in 2023.

“We’ve made school history twice, and we feel lucky to be part of this program,” shared senior Natalie Loy. “We’re like a family, and that’s what truly counts.” She added, “I’m going to cherish everything because our team feels so fortunate to have one another.” Loy continued, “We are grateful for our coaches and all the fun memories from practice and bus rides.” She concluded, “I am just very excited and very happy.”

“These girls are a fantastic group, they care for each other, they’ve been brought up well, and it’s been a joy being around them,” stated head coach Doug Hageman. “Replacing those six seniors is going to be a real challenge.”