MACOMB, Ill. - Western Illinois softball's Payton Brown was named as Co-Ohio Valley Conference Player of the Week after a standout performance this past weekend when the Leathernecks faced off against OVC opponent, UT Martin. This is the first OVC honor of the season for the Sophomore from Taylor Ridge, Illinois. 

In the three OVC games, Brown went 8-for-14, scoring five runs, hitting 2 doubles, and eight RBI's. Not to mention, two Home Runs in the walk-off win against UT Martin on Saturday, March 29th. Across multiple games, Brown proved to be an unstoppable force in the lineup, consistently driving in runs and producing clutch hits that powered the Leathernecks to success.

From the weekend the most memorable performances came when she launched a decisive walk-off home run in the high-stakes extra inning match-up, breaking open the game and solidifying her status as a clutch performer. Whether it was driving in the go-ahead run or keeping rallies alive, Brown's bat was the difference-maker throughout the week.

As a Leatherneck, Brown hit multiple season highs in the weekend series including: three hits, two home runs, three runs scored, five runs batted in, stealing one base, and recording seven assists. 

Her award-winning week highlights her combination of power, precision, and patience at the plate, Payton Brown has firmly established herself as one of the premier hitters in the lineup.

The Leatherneck softball team will be back in action this weekend in Macomb, Illinois at Mary McKee Stadium as they take on the Tennessee State starting on Saturday, April 5th. 

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