By Sean Duncan

NEW LENOX, IL – Steve Skolarz began his whirlwind season pitching on Lincoln-Way West’s freshman team before getting promoted to the sophomore squad. About three weeks ago, Warriors coach Jake Zajc saw enough improvement to call Skolarz up to the varsity.

And on Wednesday night, the 6-foot-3, 215-pound freshman found himself on the mound against the No. 1 team in the state, Joliet Catholic Academy, in front of a packed home crowd in the Class 3A Lincoln-Way West sectional semifinal.

The pressure was enough to confetti the steeliest of 15-year-old’s nerves. Not Skolarz. Calm as can be, Skolarz threw a five-hit shutout to lead Lincoln-Way West to a shocking 3-0 victory over the Class 3A tournament favorite JCA.

“I’ve been waiting for this game,” said a composed Skolarz after the game. “I just blanked everything out. I just tried to keep my composure out there.”

Skolarz (3-1) limited JCA (29-8-1) to five singles and struck out seven while walking three. In the early innings, Skolarz’s fastball was in the 83-85 mph range. He also mixed in an effective 66-69 mph curveball, which he located for strikes.

“He was poised and patient,” said Zajc. “We knew he was capable, but going out and doing it is another thing.”

Skolarz effort on the mound sends Lincoln-Way West (24-13) to the sectional championship game against Marian Catholic on Saturday at 11 a.m. The Warriors previously knocked off Lemont before ending the Hilltoppers’ season.