Glueckert leads Hoosiers

The Hoosiers needed someone to step up and lead the team this year.

Luckily for them, senior outfielder Jennifer Glueckert has become the person they were looking for.

Glueckert’s .256 batting average last season wouldn’t have made her a favorite to be a team leader this year, but her hard work in the off-season helped improve her swing.

“I focus in at moving the runner or trying to get on base, and I think that helps,” Glueckert said.

Gleuckert’s work ethic and confidence have made her one of the top Hoosiers this year.

“Jen is a competitor,” IU assistant coach Amanda Rivera said. “Every time she steps into that box, she puts in everything she has.”

Through 43 games, Gleuckert leads the team with a .345 batting average and three triples. She is second on the team with a .454 slugging percentage.

Rivera has seen her improve in contact with the ball as well as in the leadership she has shown to her younger teammates.

Gleuckert has motivated her younger teammates to perform better, giving them tips on situational hitting at the plate.

Her major improvements during the off-season have come, in part, because of the help of Rivera.

“Being a senior, I have tried to be a leader, but the main source of my improvement have been the coaching staff helping me out,” Glueckert said.

Through 13 conference games, she leads the team with a .368 batting average and a .526 slugging percentage.

In Big Ten play last year, she had a .179 batting average and a .232 slugging percentage.

“Her work ethic has gotten better and better every year since I’ve been here,” Rivera said.

Glueckert’s ability to concentrate has also improved. Her focus on what’s happening at the plate has helped the team’s productivity.

“I think more about the situation when I’m up to bat,” Glueckert said.

The South Bend native’s slap-hitting ability has gotten her on base numerous times this year.

Glueckert has gotten into a groove and continues to gain confidence as the season progresses.
 
“She’s the person you want to put up with bases loaded and we are down by a run,” Rivera said.