April 24, 2001

By Danny Smith

It was nothing out of the ordinary for UIC catcher Stefanie Christoferson.

Christoferson played a crucial role in the Flames' 4-0 upset victory over No. 11 ranked DePaul on April 18thm as she belted a two-run homer that hit the left-field fair pole to put the game out of reach for the Blue Demons.

Christoferson strides to the plate. Christoferson delivers a game-altering hit. It's been a common theme for the UIC softball team over the last four seasons.

During Christoferson's four years at UIC, the Flames have posted a record of 204-84, won three MCC titles, and appeared in three NCAA Regionals. Similar accolades are all but expected to continue in the 2001 season.

Christoferson needs two more hits to overtake former Flames' great Trish Charbonneau for the top spot on the UIC career hits list with 284.

"The record just means that a lot of hard work has paid off and that I've done my job in the lineup," Christoferson said.

Her career has been distinguished, marked by three appearances on the All-MCC squad, including 2000 MCC Player of the Year honors and twice named to Second-Team All-Region.

Christoferson has belted out some eye-popping numbers during her career that includes a .322 batting average, 28 home runs, 149 runs batted in and 159 runs scored.

But the numbers don't matter to the California native.

"I just go out there and have fun and whatever happens, happens. I've never been concerned with the numbers, just enjoying myself," Christoferson said.

She has been one of head coach Mike McGovern's most accomplished and consistent athletes in his 12 years at the helm of UIC softball.

"From the moment she stepped onto this campus, (Stephanie) has showed a high-level of responsibility and maturity...both in the classroom and on the field," McGovern said. "She's always remained focused on her responsibilities."

Christoferson's productivity has not curtailed in the least during her senior season, posting a .336 batting average with six homers, 28 RBI's , and a team-high 17 doubles in leading the Flames to a 29-21 record during the 2001 campaign. She manages to keep it all in keen perspective.

"As a team we have all the potential to go the World Series and we showed that in beating DePaul," Christoferson said. "Individually, I'm not doing as well as I would like, but as long as I'm helping the team in some way (the individual numbers) don't really matter that much."

Junior pitcher Maral Binnebose who often finds herself peering into Christoferson's catcher's mitt, has nothing but glowing statements for her senior teammate.

"Steph is a gifted player who brings a lot to the table for our team," Binnebose said. "Time after time, she's come through with clutch hits or a good defensive play to keep us at a very high level."

And when all is said and done, Christoferson will hold her playing days at UIC in high favor.

"Along with the friendships I have made, the experiences I've had here will only help me in the real world," Christoferson said.