Northwest Wayne News

Wayne State University's Elly Koopman has been named the GLIAC Player of the Week. The freshman first baseman and pitcher from Hudsonville, Michigan, earned this recognition after an impressive performance during the Warriors' spring break trip.

Koopman achieved a .500 batting average over four games, contributing significantly to Wayne State's 3-1 record for the week. Her offensive highlights included a home run and eight RBIs, alongside errorless defense. Notably, she maintained a seven-game hitting streak with hits in each game.

In the matchup against Ohio Dominican, Koopman went 1-for-3 with an RBI. She then added two hits and another RBI against Wayne State College. Her crucial two-out RBI single in the fifth inning helped secure a 3-1 victory over the Panthers. Against Sioux Falls, her performance was pivotal; she hit a three-run homer that reduced WSU's deficit from 7-2 to 7-5 in their eventual 10-9 win.

Continuing her form on Sunday, Koopman delivered two hits and three RBIs in each contest. Her contributions were essential in both games, including a key single that tied the game against Lake Erie at 1-1 before she drove in two more runs to extend WSU's lead.

This honor marks the second time this season that a Wayne State rookie has been awarded GLIAC Player of the Week honors; Katelyn DeWitt previously received recognition following WSU’s opening weekend at the Lincoln Memorial Tournament. Currently, Wayne State holds a record of 6-7 as they continue their spring break schedule.