DANVILLE — Brynley Wenig has a big name to live up to.
Her father, Jake Wenig, is a legend in Danville High School sports lore. Jake Wenig was an all-state basketball player for the Bears, teaming with his older brother, Isaiah, to help Danville win back-to-back state championships in boys basketball in 2001 and 2002.
Brynley Wenig is making a name for herself on the softball field for the Bears this summer.
Wenig is hitting .400 with a .455 on-base percentage and a .650 slugging percentage. She has two doubles and one home run, has scored six runs and driven in three runs.
In the circle, she has a 1.59 earned-run average. In 22 innings, she has allowed 17 hits and five earned runs, walked just five and struck out 37.
In a recent loss to West Burlington-Notre Dame, Wenig had a monster game. She went 4-for-4 with two doubles and a home run, scored four runs and drove in three.
Wenig is playing a key role for second-year coach Makenzie Morris, who is trying to re-establish the program to its former glory.
As an eighth grader, Wenig hit .333 with a .451 on-base percentage and a .427 slugging percentage. She finished with five doubles and one triple, scored 18 runs and drove in 14 runs.
In the circle, Wenig had a 2.81 ERA. In 97 innings, she allowed 100 hits and 39 earned runs, walked 38 and struck out 114.
Just like her father, when the lights are brightest, Brynley Wenig is at her best.
The Hawk Eye recently caught up with Wenig, the High School Athlete of the Week, to learn a little more about her.
What is your favorite sport besides softball?
Volleyball
Something I learned from a coach that I will never forget is …
Don’t take things personally.
My favorite moment in softball was …
Making friends with unexpected people.
My most embarrassing moment in softball was …
I tripped on the mound after striking someone out.
A role model that has had the most influence on me is …
Ronnie Brandenburg and Matt Holmes.
Something on my bucket list is …
Traveling with my best friend.
My favorite meal is …
Street Tacos from Buffalo Wild Wings.
If I won the lottery, my first purchase would be …
Huge beach house.
My biggest pet peeve is…
People chewing with their mouth open.
In my free time I enjoy …
Shopping and tanning.
My favorite motivational slogan or quote is …
“Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”
Which teacher has had the biggest influence on you and why?
Mrs. Taeger has had the biggest influence on me because she doesn’t sugar coat things and always tells the truth.
What is special about your high school?
How supportive the community is.
In 25 years, I will be…
Rich and happy.
Something about myself that would surprise people is …
I’ve never tried any seafood.