CHAMPAIGN — Former Delavan standout softball player Lainey Klokkenga has wasted no time making her presence felt at the collegiate level. Now a freshman for the Parkland College Cobras, Klokkenga has emerged as one of the team’s most consistent and dangerous hitters through the opening stretch of the 2026 season, delivering power, poise and production well beyond her years.

Through 14 games, Klokkenga is batting an eye catching .488, ranking among the top hitters in NJCAA Division II. She has already collected 21 hits, including eight doubles and three home runs, while driving in 13 runs and scoring 10. Her early-season slugging percentage sits at a blistering .884, a mark that places her among the national leaders.

A Breakout Start in Florida

Klokkenga’s first collegiate weekend set the tone for what would follow. In Parkland’s season opening appearance at the NWF Round Robin in Niceville, Florida, she delivered one of the most impressive debuts of any freshman in the tournament field.

Against Polk State College, Klokkenga launched a two run home run in the top of the first inning—her first collegiate blast—and later added a double and an RBI single, finishing the game 3 for 4 with three RBIs and two runs scored. Even in a narrow 6–5 loss, she was the most productive hitter on either roster.

She followed that performance with another multi hit outing the same day, collecting three hits in Parkland’s matchup with Polk State in the afternoon session. Over the course of the Florida trip, she recorded multiple three hit games, including a perfect 3 for 3 performance with a home run and two extra base hits on January 24.

Consistency Against Tough Competition

Parkland’s early schedule has been stacked with nationally ranked opponents and perennial postseason qualifiers, but Klokkenga has remained steady at the plate. She has logged hits in 12 of her 14 games, including several multi hit performances against Hinds, Meridian, and Holmes Community College.

Her ability to produce in high leverage moments has also stood out. In a February 19 win over Hinds, she doubled twice and drove in a run, helping the Cobras secure a 6–4 victory. The following day, she added another RBI and extra base hit against Meridian, continuing her streak of timely contributions.

A Versatile Threat

Listed as both a pitcher and infielder, Klokkenga has primarily made her mark with her bat so far, but Parkland coaches have praised her versatility and athleticism. Her low strikeout rate—just two strikeouts in 43 at bats—underscores her disciplined approach and advanced feel for the strike zone.

From Delavan to Division II Impact Player

For Delavan fans who watched Klokkenga dominate at the high school level, her early success comes as no surprise. Known for her power, leadership, and competitive fire, she has transitioned seamlessly into the college game, quickly becoming one of Parkland’s most reliable offensive weapons.

As the Cobras continue their spring schedule and prepare for conference play, Klokkenga’s bat will remain central to their hopes of returning to the national tournament. If her first month is any indication, Parkland has found a cornerstone player—and Delavan has yet another hometown athlete making waves on the collegiate stage.