Softball Training
Our expert instructors at PreGame Sports will teach a strong, fundamental base to each individual player in an encouraging, positive way. Their experience on the field as a player and coach will teach you both the physical and mental side of the game and how to apply it on the field in order to take your game to the next level. Please email the instructors below to set up your training session at PreGame Sports.
Erin Walker
Tuscola High School graduate. Holds all pitching records and went to state in 2012.
Played softball all 4 years of college:
Kankakee Community College - NJCAA National Champion
Parkland College - NJCAA All Region Pitcher and was named MWAC Pitcher of the Year
Finished college career playing for the University of Illinois
Coached softball at Parkland College for 2024/2025 season
Coaches full time - is experienced in coaching pitching for any age - up through college level
Obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois and a Master’s degree in Exercise Science from Eastern Illinois University
Has experience in Strength and Conditioning as well - volunteered for EIU men’s and women’s basketball, was the strength and conditioning coach for Parkland College softball team for 2024-2025 season, and makes personalized strength and conditioning workout programs for athletes of any sport and any age.
Contact Erin at: 217-898-2053
Makayla Walsh Taylor
Makayla Walsh Taylor is a former collegiate softball player and dedicated coach with a lifelong passion for the game. A graduate of St. Anthony High School, Makayla built a strong foundation as a standout player before continuing her athletic career at Parkland College, where she competed for two years and developed her skills at the collegiate level. She then transferred to the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) to complete her college career, gaining valuable experience both on and off the field.
After college, Makayla returned to her alma mater, St. Anthony High School, where she began coaching softball in 2019. She has a career record of 101 wins and 22 losses over a 4 year career at Effingham St. Anthony High School. She has also received the ICA 2A Sectional Coach of the Year twice. Since then, she has focused on helping young athletes grow their confidence, sharpen their fundamentals, and develop a deep love for the game. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes hard work, positive energy, and a team-first mindset—values that shaped her own playing career.
Whether she’s leading a team or providing one-on-one instruction, Makayla brings enthusiasm, experience, and a commitment to helping every athlete reach their full potential.
Contact Makayla at 217-663-4641