Mount Si players are ‘all in’ on the softball diamond

Wilbourne, Gronewald and Simmons lead the way.

By Andy Nystrom • March 27, 2019 2:30 pm

Mount Si High softball players are all over their motto, “All In.”

“Get everyone together, be competitive, put everything you’ve got into it,” said junior center fielder Molly Wilbourne before a recent game at North Creek High in Bothell.

Wilbourne, who smacked two hits for five RBIs in a 14-4 win against Issaquah on March 25, said the Wildcats sport some big bats this season and those weapons will keep the offensive side of their game rolling. Younger players are stepping into their roles and she’s excited about the whole deal.

Mount Si softball (1-2 at press time) has been a classroom of sorts on the diamond.

“I’ve learned a lot. It’s a lot of teamwork, meeting new girls and trying to help each other out ‘cause it’s not just a one-person team. Everyone has to work together and we have to have a real bond for it to work,” said Wilbourne, whose team includes eight freshmen.

Senior Abby Gronewald, who plays catcher and third base, nailed two hits for four RBIs against Issaquah and likes seeing the team gel. Perhaps a postseason spot in the 4A KingCo tournament is in the cards, she said.

She’s set on making the most of her senior year.

“I’m just trying to get everything prepared and pass the torch down next year and hopefully carry it on. It’s been a lot of fun, definitely grown up a lot out here. It’s cool seeing everyone come together and just keep building up the program over the years,” said Gronewald, who echoed Wilbourne’s words about the team’s offensive firepower, but feels the Wildcats need to play cleaner defense.

Other top Wildcat players are senior Samantha Simmons and recent hot hitters Madison Bonham (two hits against Issaquah and a homer in a 13-2 loss to North Creek), Jackalyn Gates (three hits versus Issaquah) and Vera Harrison (a homer against North Creek).

The Record asked Gronewald and Wilbourne a series of questions to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into their lives:

What’s your favorite restaurant in the area?

Gronewald: North Bend Bar and Grill.

Wilbourne: Gianfranco’s.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

Gronewald: When people make little noises or chew with their mouth open — it bothers me.

Wilbourne: People (in) a really close personal space, so if they come really close to me.

What’s your dream vacation spot?

Gronewald: Tahiti or Bora Bora.

Wilbourne: Hawaii or Bora Bora.

Who’s your idol growing up?

Gronewald: Mike Trout (Los Angeles Angels).