QU SOFTBALL FIRST PITCH BANQUET FEATURES FORMER WNBA PLAYER AND BASKETBALL HALL OF FAMER JACKIE STILES

QUINCY, Ill. – The Quincy University Softball First Pitch Banquet features guest speaker Jackie Stiles on February 2, at Pointe D’Vine in Quincy, Ill.

“We are happy to welcome Jackie Stiles as our guest speaker. Jackie is a former professional basketball player who gained national attention during her collegiate career, where she became the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer,” said Cathy Monroe, QU head softball coach. “As an athlete, coach and personal trainer, Jackie offers motivation to athletes of all sports.”

Stiles is one of the most renowned basketball players in the history of the women’s game. At Southwest Missouri State University, she rewrote the NCAA women’s basketball record books and led the Lady Bears to the 2001 Final Four. Stiles was the 4th pick in the WNBA draft in 2001 and earned WNBA Rookie of the Year.

Stiles held the NCAA career scoring record for 16 years while accumulating honors that include the prestigious Wade Trophy and the Honda Awards Player of the Year. She was a three-time NCAA All American. She is a member of the Missouri State, Missouri Valley Conference, Springfield Area, Kansas and National High School Halls of Fame. In 2016, Stiles was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.

“I’m truly honored to speak at Quincy University’s softball banquet as we celebrate the start of an exciting new season,” said Stiles. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to recognize the hard work, dedication, and passion of these athletes as they prepare to take the field and make their mark. I’m eager to share in the energy, enthusiasm, and the incredible program that Coach Monroe has built.”

Stiles has long been an inspiration to young athletes everywhere who have big dreams. Following her prolific playing career, she moved into the coaching profession with collegiate stints at Loyola Marymount, Missouri State and the University of Oklahoma, before moving into private business. From her legendary workout regimes to her enthusiastic approach to life, Jackie continues to impact people of all ages, in all walks of life.

“We have the opportunity to gain valuable insights from a great athlete,” said Monroe.  “Jackie Stiles will share inspiring stories, personal experiences, and lessons learned throughout her extraordinary career.”

QU alumni, family, friends, and community members are welcome to kick off the 2025 season with the QU Softball First Pitch Banquet at Pointe D’Vine in Quincy. Doors open at 1:00 p.m. with lunch beginning at 1:30 p.m. Ticket prices are $65/person, $120/couple, and $500/table (10).

Purchase tickets at http://secure.qgiv.com/for/quincyuniversity/event/quinunivesofirspba202c/.

For more information, contact head coach, Cathy Monroe at c.monroe73@sanmingzhi.net.

Founded in 1860 by Franciscan friars, Quincy University is a small Catholic university emphasizing the sciences, liberal arts and the professions. Quincy University offers undergraduate, graduate and adult education programs integrating practical experience and Franciscan values. Faculty and advisors work with students to design customized success plans to help them graduate on time, find their passion and prepare them for life. QU is a member of NCAA Division II for intercollegiate athletics. For more information, please visit l9bu.sanmingzhi.net or contact the Office of Community Relations at (217) 228-5275 or communityrelations@sanmingzhi.net. Quincy University. Success by Design.