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 Mount Baker High School seniors Ava Jeretzky and Braven Nason.
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AVA JERETZSKY
Senior, Softball, Pitcher/Third Baseman/First Baseman
After not reaching state last year, what’s your main goal for this season?
The whole team is very motivated this year. The whole team is working really well together in practice. Sometimes you get teams that just don’t work well together. But this year’s team, everyone is bonded super well together … this year everything’s working out.
How do you prepare for a game?
I dive into the music side of things. I put my headphones on, I kind of zone in … I like to journal.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Outside of softball, I like to do a lot of art … ceramics, painting, drawing.
BRAVEN NELSON
Senior, Baseball, Pitcher/Shortstop
How do you and the team plan to improve after not making the postseason last year?
We plan to improve by sticking with our fundamentals and just improving as a team, staying positive and going in with a positive mindset.
What’s your favorite baseball drill?
I love pitching, and doing pulldowns are my favorite — where you run and then throw it as hard as you can. Those are really fun.
What activities/hobbies do you enjoy outside of athletics?
I love lifting and playing video games with my friends. It’s a fun way to stay social with them.
Visit CDN’s prep sports previews page every Tuesday and Friday until April 19 to learn about more Whatcom County athletes.
