Veteran team returns for shot at KingCo

By Dean Wong

With spring fast approaching the Ballard Beavers fast pitch softball team is ready to make a statement in KingCo.

There's reason for optimism. Eleven players from last year are back for another run to the playoffs.

Senior Leslie Ellingsen is playing the final season for Ballard and if the last two years are any indication, KingCo pitchers have much to fear.

Ellingsen had what head coach Al Lowe described as an "incredibly high" batting average of .609 in 2006. The year before, she hit .509.

"Both years she lead the league in offensive percentage," said Lowe.

When Ellingsen is at bat, opposing coaches often tell their outfielders to back up, anticipating a big hit from the multi-sport Beaver athlete.

"She goes hard--100 percent," said Lowe. "She never slows down. I expect even more from her this year. That would be a plus."

Ellingsen is also a threat as pitcher where she throws the ball with great velocity.

Junior Tara French gives Ballard a one-two punch as pitcher. "Leslie and Tara are two different style pitchers," said Lowe.

Unlike Ellingsen's power game, French is a control pitcher. "She never throws fast balls, she controls batters," said Lowe.

Both are left-handed.

"The advantage for us is having two good pitchers," said Lowe.

The team lost hard-hitting Emily Gussin to graduation but has plenty of talent left, including Kelly Ohm, Nicole Murray, Hallie Hemmingsen and Jessie Thelen.

Nora Schlenker is another top returnee who will add to Ballard's experience.

"Nora is a good level headed player," said Lowe. "She's definitely a plus for us."

Last year injuries were a factor in Ballard not making the post season.

"We're in good shape," Lowe said. "If we stay healthy we'll be all right. It will be interesting to see."

The Beavers are prepared for an exciting season.

"They are level headed kids, they work together and are ready to get the job done," he said. "We are focused on what we are doing. Everything will come together."

Ballard fans can see for themselves on March 14 when the Beavers take on Woodinville at Lower Woodland Park at 3:45 p.m. and March 19 against Juanita also at Lower Woodland.