Ella Bailey-West is not only a strong student but also an amazing and hardworking softball player. The freshman has been playing softball for four years and has spent the last two years on a travel ball team.
West’s main position is catcher, but she originally started at third base before discovering that she was a pretty good catcher..
Last year, Bailey-West had the opportunity to compete at Western Nationals in Oregon with her travel ball team, Nevada County Thunder, creating countless memories on and off the field.
“It was really, really competitive, honestly,” Bailey-West said. “It was probably some of the best pitching I have ever seen. I’m talking like ’60s, which is pretty fast, especially because I was in 12U at the time.”
Her team performed well at nationals, winning some games and losing others, but what stood out the most was the team’s passion and determination. When they weren’t on the field, they spent time team-bonding.
“Some days we only had one game,” Bailey-West said. “So there was a lot of time that we did a lot of team bonding on and off the field.”
Ella’s teammates describe her as someone who brings energy, kindness and motivation.
“It’s really fun playing softball with Ella,” Bear River freshman Caycee Long said. “We get a lot of really good playing time, and it’s a great way to build out our relationship.”
During her travel ball season, Bailey-West made many new friendships, especially getting close with freshmen Avery Maier and Lillyanna Martin. Out of all their shared experiences, one memory stands out to them the most.
“I remember sitting in the stairwell at nationals with her and Lilly, and that’s how we bonded,” Maier said. “Over a tub of red vines and running from a bunch of younger girls.”
Bailey-West continues to grow as a player and a person, inspiring her teammates and setting an example of hard work and sportsmanship.
“I just had a great time, and I’m so grateful that I was able to experience that, and now I’m so happy that I get to share my stories.” Bailey-West expresses. “I will forever remember all of the games and friends that I made during that time.”
