ROCKFORD — Katie Hayes, a 2021 Monroe graduate, finished her softball career at Rock Valley College as an All-American. 

As a sophomore, Hayes hit .458 in 56 games. She tallied 77 hits, 31 runs scored and 80 runs batted in. Behind the plate, she had 258 put outs and 16 assists. In 281 total chances to make a play, Hayes committed just seven errors for a .975 fielding percentage.

This season, the Golden Eagles moved up to Division II. Despite the jump, Rock Valley compiled a 44-12 record, making the world series for the ninth straight year. Prior to the 2023 season, the Eagles had won eight straight NJCAA Division III national titles. Hayes was a part of the 2022 national championship team.

As a sophomore in a junior college, Hayes graduated this spring. She will continue her academic and athletic career at the University of Dubuque in Iowa this fall.