Top-Ranked Marist Stays Perfect, Overpowers Lincoln-Way West 11-5

The Lincoln-Way West varsity softball team faced its stiffest challenge of the season on Monday afternoon, falling 11-5 to the undefeated Marist RedHawks in a highly anticipated non-conference home matchup.

Marist arrived in New Lenox boasting a flawless 7-0 record and the top ranking in the state for their class, and they showed exactly why they are the team to beat in 2026. The RedHawks’ high-powered offense lived up to its formidable reputation, generating 11 runs to outpace a strong Lincoln-Way West squad.

Despite the loss, the Warriors—who entered the contest with an impressive 8-3 overall record—managed to push five runs across the plate against a stingy Marist defense that had allowed just 16 runs all season prior to Monday. Lincoln-Way West has been an offensive juggernaut in its own right this spring, outscoring opponents 112-39 through their first 11 games, but the RedHawks ultimately controlled the tempo to secure the road victory.

With the defeat, Lincoln-Way West drops to 1-1 at home this season and will look to quickly bounce back as they navigate the rest of their challenging non-conference schedule. Marist, meanwhile, extends its perfect start to the campaign and solidifies its status at the top of the rankings.

Game Summary

Score by Quarters

(Note: Innings played)
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | R | H | E |
|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|
| Marist | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | 11 | – | – |
| Lincoln-Way West | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | 5 | – | – |