February 7, 2024

By Jon Feyen
ScoutU

With more than 1,600 collegiate softball programs across the nation, how is a recruit supposed to find the best fit? Some student-athletes chose one close to home for the familiarity, convenience and the ability to play in front of family. Others love the idea of moving far away for new experiences. ScoutU catcher Casey Navarro found a middle ground with her recent commitment to Illinois College.

Navarro, a 2025 prospect from North Prairie, Wis., chose the NCAA Division III school in central Illinois because it felt like home. She liked the small campus and class sizes, while coaches and players immediately made her part of their family.

Illinois College has been a force in recent years, winning 88 percent of its Midwest Conference games and making two trips to the NCAA Tournament since 2021.

During her sophomore campaign at Kettle Moraine High School, Navarro batted .407 and slugged .558 with three home runs. She also possesses a 60 mph arm to thwart potential base stealers.

“I started helping Casey with her recruiting in June 2023, and a few months later, she visited Illinois College for the first time,” ScoutU’s Jason Lauren said. “I’m proud of Casey for choosing a school that was the best all-around fit for her and not just looking at what division the school was. Casey hits for power with her quick swing and excellent 73 mph exit velocity, and she has good size for a catcher at 5-10, 160 pounds. I’m confident she will be an impact player for Illinois College!”

Navarro has been dreaming of college softball since she was 9 years old, and that goal became reality as she received five offers. Many more schools competed for Navarro’s abilities. Casey and her family are excited that she found the best place to continue her career.

“Jason definitely made Casey think outside the box,” said Tiffany Arthur, Casey’s mom. “At our first meeting, Casey was dead-set on only going to local schools – but after Jason explained to her the difference between a local school and a school 6-plus hours away, it definitely made Casey think about other options. After Casey’s first exposure email, her inbox was full of schools that wanted to talk with her.

“ScoutU gave us the tools our daughter needed to be exposed nationwide. From NAIA to D1, after her video was emailed, she immediately started to get calls. Jason and everyone at ScoutU made the experience easy and worthwhile.”