In 2022, Whatcom County athletes tallied 24 state titles during the spring season alone. Last season they earned 25. Could 26 be on the horizon in 2024? Spring sports mark the return to the outdoors — often with frequent weather-related hiccups in the early season. Snow flurries, torrential downpours and gray, windy days make “spring” sports challenging. But that’s part of the ride.
[ Whatcom County spring athletes have big shoes to fill in 2024 ]
In today’s story, learn about Nooksack Valley High School seniors Kate Shintaffer and Kasey Newton.
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KASEY NEWTON
Senior, Baseball, Pitcher/Outfielder
Most of last year’s team is returning this season. How will that help you and the team try and get further in the postseason this year?
I think having guys who have been at the varsity level for two to three years is a plus because nothing is really a surprise to us, we know what we need to do to make the postseason.
We know we need to play our game and do the little things right, and the rest will take care of itself. Having a group that pushes each other and isn’t afraid to hold each other accountable is what makes a good team great, and I believe that’s who we are.
What do you enjoy most about baseball?
One of the things I enjoy most about playing baseball is how it humbles me every day, and how it never leaves me satisfied. I also just enjoy the beauty of the game, like hitting a walk-off home run or making a diving catch or striking a guy out. How can you not be romantic about baseball?
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
One thing that most people don’t know about me is my love for World War II history and my love for war movies.
KATE SHINTAFFER
Junior, Girls track and field, Sprints/Relays/Throws
Nooksack Valley has seen an increase in athletes headed to state in recent years. How do you feel about that recent success?
It’s a great feeling for me and other athletes to know that feeling of getting to compete at a state level, but also the community getting to watch and support us along the way. It shows a lot about how Nooksack has taken a leap in athletics and what it has to offer for our students and community — not only in the small town but also at a higher level like state.
I think that it gives other kids a different look on sports seeing that fellow students at our school are competing at state, so it gets them excited, and they end up trying a sport as well. It’s been a cycle of inspiration these past years for us.
What do you feel is your best skill as an athlete?
For me, I would say being able to adapt to any situation and recognize when something or someone is not performing at the level I know they can. ‘Be a thermometer not a thermostat,’ my [basketball] coach Shane Wichers always says.
I can be adaptable; thermostats proactively change those around them and realize if something or someone, including themselves, is off, and will react positively to bring themselves or the team up to their full capability.
How has your role evolved on the team since your high school career began?
When I was a freshman, I was quite timid and let the seniors do all the talking and drill leading. I would ask for help frequently and I was not confident in myself. I used to beat myself up a bit, especially in track because I would end up placing in a spot I wouldn’t like and think that I failed. But I’ve learned that track and sports in the wide view, really, it’s just you against yourself, and how good of a leader and athlete you can be for yourself.
I think that’s the biggest lesson I have learned over competing in track is that you don’t have to win every race to be happy with your performance.
Visit CDN’s prep sports previews page every Tuesday and Friday until April 19 to learn about more Whatcom County athletes.
