Creston, IA—The Spartans of Southwestern Community College will have some force on the mound next year with the addition of Fort Madison pitcher Erika Kruse.

Southwestern Head Coach Danny Jensen said Kruse is a hard-throwing right-handed pitcher, with pitching speeds in the low 60s.

"Erika has been pitching for nine years and has developed four pitches including a great change-up," said Jensen. "She had a great junior year with 12 home runs and 50 RBIs in 35 games."

According to Jensen, both totals were in the top three in 4A softball last summer. Kruse has been rewarded with a number of post-season honors for her efforts, including being a four-time all-conference selection, two-time all-district pick, and an all-state selection last summer.

Kruse has played for the Firebirds travel team for a number of years. She will graduate from Fort Madison High School in June 2023. Jensen said Kruse will be a welcome addition to the middle of the Spartan line-up next year.

She is the daughter of Michelle Kruse and Nick Kruse of Fort Madison.