Quincy University Hawks

2025 (Freshman): As a freshman, Van Erem appeared in two games inside the circle for the Hawks. She made her collegiate debut against Parkside (2/14/25), where she threw one inning and earned her first collegiate punchout.

Personal: Van Erem comes to Quincy from Waterloo, Iowa, where she graduated from Waterloo West High School. Coming from a strong athletic lineage, her mother, Jamie Van Erem, played volleyball and basketball at Upper Iowa University and is a member of the UIU Athletic Hall of Fame, while her father, Ryan Van Erem, played football at Upper Iowa University. Jersey carried on the family’s athletic tradition, earning recognition as the Marine Corps Female Athlete of the Year and serving as a team captain. She was named Most Improved Player in 2020, 2023, and 2024, earned Mississippi Valley All-Conference Honorable Mention in 2024 and was selected for the All-Metro Team the same year. She played a key role in leading her team to back-to-back Metro Championships in 2023 and 2024.

Statistically, Jersey was among the top pitchers in the conference during the 2024 season, ranking in the top five for ERA (3.09), opponent batting average (.233), and strikeouts (85). She also competed at a high level in travel softball with Central Iowa Kaos. Off the field, she was an outstanding student, earning Academic All-Conference honors in both 2023 and 2024, being a member of the National Honor Society, and serving as a Link Crew Member. She was also recognized for her commitment to service with the Mayor’s Top Teen Volunteer Award.

Beyond sports, Jersey enjoys working out, fishing, spending time with family and friends, listening to music, and journaling. She has a passion for giving back to her community through volunteer work. Inspired by Serena Williams, she is also a dedicated Chicago Cubs fan.

Why QU?
I chose QU because the staff and faculty on campus are so welcoming, and it feels like you are part of one big family.