On Thursday night, Loras College pitcher/first baseman/designated hitter Kellie Klein was named a National Fastpitch Coaches Associations (NFCA) All-American. The award follows her distinction earlier this week as a first team NFCA All-Midwest selection at the utility position. Klein is Loras' first All-American softball player since first baseman Erin Moreland in 1998.

In the last week, Klein has been awarded first team All-IIAC honors, first team All-Midwest Region honors, and now All-American. She is Loras' fourth softball All-American in the program's history, and is a member of the 2012 3rd team.

"Kellie is a true competitor," head coach Ashley Rogers said upon learning of the All-American award.

"She does whatever is necessary for the team, whether that be playing first base, being a designated player, or pitching on the mound. This year Kellie made a huge impact for the Duhawks and her hard work paid off!"

Klein was in the top ten in the Iowa Conference - regarded by many as the best league in NCAA Division III - in homeruns (7) and slugging percentage (.619). She hit .309 with seven doubles, one triple, and 26 RBI in 32 games. On the mound in 12 starts (13 total appearances) she logged a total of 67 innings pitched - over 25% of the team's total. She finished 2012 with a 2.72 ERA and 62 strikeouts, and an 8-4 record.

"Kellie is a driven athlete and is always trying to improve each day," Rogers added. "We are fortunate to have such a determined, team oriented and competitive athlete at Loras."

The Duhawks went 20-18 in 2012, earning three wins over top-25 competition.