09-05-2025
Extra Effort: Senior Gabby Lane a key student volunteer at East Peoria
EAST PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD/WYZZ) — She is a four-year varsity softball player and likely will set the school record for most games played in a career.
But there's more to Gabby Lane than what fans see on a softball field.
'I find it a pleasure to be tired at the end of the day,' said Lane. 'When I go home and I'm not tired, I feel like I haven't done enough. Going home tired is very rewarding.'
Lane is a go-getter as a two-sport athlete and as a student. The softball and volleyball player is also a Key Club member who helps with 'Egg My Yard,' a fundraising Easter egg hunt.
She helps mentor freshmen through the Link Crew and is an east Peoria Young Life senior leader. Lane helped teammates gather clothing and hygiene donations in a school-wide 'Stuff-A-Bus' campaign.
'I love doing (activities) with my teammates. I find a lot of pleasure in doing that. Sports has brought us all together,' said lane. 'Doing things with them and then by myself makes me feel more involved.'
Lane has been a three-year starter at shortstop but has played some first base and outfield this season. She moves around school with a smile, too.
'People say, 'Is she always that happy?' And 90 percent of the time she is,' said East Peoria softball coach Denee Menzione. 'Everybody knows Gabby, she's a great student. Teachers in the classroom love her and want more of her.'
She knows she'll have great memories from her high school sports career but Lane says getting involved in non-sports activities has been equally as rewarding.
'Going out of my way to meet new people and find new experiences has been eye-opening,' said Lane. 'Being able to connect with them on the same level is very rewarding.'
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