CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – The Parkland College Athletic Department and the Cobras softball program are proud to announce that Isabel Shafer has committed to continue her softball and academic careers with the Huskies of Northern Illinois University.
 
She is one of a pair of players from this year's team who is moving on to the next level, athletically, making a total of 23 who have done so in the past ten years. This past season, Shafer helped lead Cobras Softball to a 53-9 overall record, finishing in the Elite Eight at the NJCAA DII National Tournament after winning championships in both the NJCAA Central A District and the Mid-West Athletic Conference.
 
"Parkland softball will always hold a special place in my heart," reflected Shafer. "I'm so thankful I got the opportunity to play with such amazing coaches and teammates. I'm so grateful for all of the memories that I have made over the past two years! Thank you, Parkland, for making these years the best!"
 
Shafer, from Dalton City, Ill., was named to the 2021 NJCAA All-America Third Team, as well as the All-Region 24 Team and the All-MWAC First Team at the end of this season. In 62 games, she produced a .448 batting average, ranked 73rd nationally in on base percentage (.519), and ranked 56th in slugging percentage (.847). In addition, she ranked 2nd in runs scored (85), 4th in hits (91), 12th in RBIs (74), 13th in home runs (19), and 25th in doubles (18).
 
Compared to her Cobras teammates this past season, Shafer led the team in runs scored (85) and hits (91), and she ranked 3rd in home runs (19).
 
The Mt. Zion High School alum appeared in 73 games during her Covid-shortened career as a Cobra. She leaves the program on several of Parkland Softball's Single-Season Top-10 lists that include: runs scored (1st), home runs (3rd), RBIs (T4th), and hits (T6th).
 
"We are extremely proud of Izzy and excited to see what the future has in store for her," shared Co-Head Coaches Dan and Kristi Paulson. "Izzy is the ultimate competitor, and she was heavily sought-after following her outstanding sophomore season.  Northern is very fortunate to land a player with her leadership ability, commitment to excellence, passion for softball, and skill set.  We are thankful for the opportunity we had to coach Izzy."
 
Northern Illinois University competes at the NCAA Division I level and is a member of the Mid-America Conference. The campus is located in DeKalb, Illinois.
 
Shafer is the daughter of Melissa and Scott Shafer. Her academic pursuits include Criminal Justice.