ALTAMONT, Ill. (WCIA) — After a standout career in high school, Altamont grad Grace Lemke is set to take her talents to Eastern Illinois University.

The two-time Class 1A All-State selection went 18-9 last season with a 0.57 ERA.

She was initially committed to the College of Lake County, but a coaching change led her to Charleston.

She initially had doubts about starting at a four-year school, but she’s embracing the opportunity to join an EIU program coming off a second NCAA Tournament appearance in three seasons.

“Half of it was just because it’s a big commitment, the other half was just I didn’t know if I was skillful as I needed to be,” Lemke said. “Then, over the last high school season and travel ball season, I realized that I can compete and I can do what I need to do. “

“The fact that she’s turned into this fantastic pitcher and person, it just shows that much growth that she’s had,” Altamont head softball coach Megan Burrus said. “Just maturity, and she learned to take criticism, and it’s helped mold her into the great athlete she is.”