Baseball
by Kupono Anuenue
Orcas High School student
After losing over half the team last year, it was difficult to secure the required 11 players needed for a team.
The returning five players from last year’s squad managed to recruit nine new players. With 10 underclassmen, three juniors and one senior, the Vikings have a lot of work to do.
We worked hard in our first non-league game against the much larger Mount Baker High school, winning 7-6. In our second game against Anacortes, we held it close until the final inning when they beat us 10-3.
From there we had a week to prepare for our first two league games against Concrete. We lost 11-2 in the first game but came back strong, winning the second 13-11.
With only one day to rest and one to practice, we made the all-day journey to Darrington, where we took care of business, winning the first 14-13 and the second 8-6.
The Vikings took on Friday Harbor on April 5 for a double-header. Orcas lost the first game 8-0 and the second game 9-3.
It is a small season, and there is only limited time to improve for playoffs, but with the team’s young core, we will be hitting our stride as the postseason begins. It’s going to be a good few years for Orcas baseball.
Softball
by Flora Lister
Orcas High School student
The Lady Vikings kicked off their league season with two wins against the Concrete Lions on Saturday, March 30.
Coach Kevin White prepped us well for the game in practice, running high-intensity fielding drills and developing our hitting. Assistant coach Brooke Bruland also prepared us with her positive coaching, advice and softball experience at the collegiate level.
Our team mindset going into the game on Saturday was one of confidence and positivity. We knew if we brought our A-game we would be able to pull out two consecutive wins. Concrete was a great competitor. The infield was able to deny the Lions any hits for three innings, making fast and efficient plays. We were also able to make an impact on the score through our hits and base running, gaining the lead in the first inning, which we kept through all seven innings.
The second game was just as successful as the first with the Vikings keeping the lead.
The Lady Vikings took on their rivals the Friday Harbor Wolverines on April 5. Orcas lost, 11-6.
As a team, we feel stronger than ever and are ready to begin the road to state! Thank you to all of our supporters and to everyone who donated money to the Booster Club through our hit-a-thon. Every single one of us appreciates your support.
