Softball's Madi Jacobus Given Medical Disqualification

SALT LAKE CITY— Junior infielder Madi Jacobus, who has started 51 games and compiled a .331 batting average in her two seasons with the Utah Softball program, has been medically disqualified by athletic trainers and medical staff because of issues related to head injuries. Jacobus will continue to be a part of the program, and will travel and attend all games as a support for her teammates and an asset to the coaching staff.
 
"This has been one of the most difficult things I've ever had to witness as a head coach. Madi has three years of eligibility left and a whole lot of love for this game, and yet she simply cannot continue. It's heartbreaking for all of us," head coach Amy Hogue said.
 
In two seasons with the Utes, the Torrance, Calif., native made an immediate impact as a freshman during the shortened 2020 season, starting all 18 games at second base and finishing with a .317 batting average. She tied for the team lead with 17 RBI and had a team-high six games with multiple RBI. Jacobus ended her freshman campaign on a nine-game hitting streak and garnered seven doubles which ranked third among Pac-12 players.
 
Building off her great 2020 season, Jacobus was an offensive force in 2021, posting a .339 batting average and strung together the longest hitting streak by a Utah player since 2017 at 14 games. She also had 10 multi-hit games and seven multi-RBI games, despite missing 19 games because of head injuries. In the classroom, Jacobus, a nursing major, was also named to the Pac-12 Academic Honor Roll in 2021.
 
"Madi is a phenomenal player, and despite her circumstances, she has been voted captain by her teammates and wants to continue to help lead this team this season from the dugout," said Hogue. "That right there shows what great character she has and the amount of love she has for her team and this program. We have been extremely blessed to have her wear a Utah uniform and represent our softball program. In the short time she's been here, she has definitely left her mark as a Ute."