The Sedro-Woolley High School girls’ fastpitch had a solid 2023 season on the diamond despite coming up short at the Class 2A State Championships after claiming the district title in a rather spectacular fashion.
“Our season went well,” said senior Sami Stark. “We made a lot of progress together. Our team was really strong up and down the line up. This team was amazing at getting the job done when it was needed and stepping up when we were asked to both together and as individuals.”
The Cubs saw their season come to an end following a heart-breaking 11-10 loss to Othelllo. That setback came on the heels of a 10-0 defeat by Aberdeen. Sedro-Woolley’s tournament began with a 4-3 victory over Fife.
“One of our team goals was to come together more as a team,” Stark said. “From the start of the season all the way up until our last game, you could see the difference in our team. We became really good at picking each other up, cheering each other on, and playing for one another.”
The highlight of the season came as the Cubs claimed the district Championship, rallying to defeat Lynden by the final score of 2-1.
“Winning the district championship felt like a dream,” Stark said. “It was one of the best moments and one I will remember from my whole high school career. We were able to show everyone who we were and we made our mark in our program’s history by winning the tournament.”
Stark was pleased with her season and felt the team really came together.
“I would say that the season went pretty well for me,” she said. “I had a good fielding and hitting season overall and this was probably the funnest season for me to play in.
“Our team progressed really well in playing for each other and being selfless. It was nice to see and feel the environment from the beginning of the season to the end of the season change. I will forever be grateful for every single one of my teammates and coaches.’
She added her mentality definitely improved as the season progressed.
“I have a tendency to be hard on myself,” Stark said, “but this season I was really good at keeping my emotions under control and to myself so I could be there for my teammates. If something didn’t go as planned at the plate or in the field, I felt I was able to keep a smile on my face and go to my teammates and encourage them.”