It’s not all that common for a third of a team’s starting lineup to live under the same roof.
Take the Sorenson household, where Sarah, a senior; Rachel, a junior; and Rebecca, a freshman, reside when they’re not helping lead Bellarmine Prep’s fastpitch team into its first Class 4A state appearance in school history.
The Lions face Bothell in the opening round this morning in Spokane.
“Playing together has been really fun,” Sarah said. “It’s been the best season ever, and I couldn’t imagine playing with a better group of people, especially Rachel and Rebecca.”
Rachel felt similarly, adding, “I think it’s the chemistry we have that has allowed us to play up to our potential – and even better.”
Bellarmine coach Craig Coovert believes the sisters’ relationship translates well to the field.
“Their closeness and positive attitude is a big reason why our entire team is so close this year,” he said. “And the fact that all three of them are talented players helps, too.”
The trio played together in the outfield during last weekend’s bi-district tournament, in which Narrows League champion Bellarmine finished second behind Rogers. While Sarah starts in right field and Rachel in left, Rebecca moved from infield to center field when starter Kelly McLaughlin got injured. It was a rare opportunity for the sisters, who have never played together competitively.
“It was cool when we were all in the outfield,” said Sarah, who made the 4A Narrows All-League second team this year.
Playing together also gives them a morale boost.
“When we bat one after the other, if one of us doesn’t get on, we can really pick each other up,” Rachel said. “That makes it fun.”
Rebecca, who was named All-League honorable mention, said advancing to the state tournament was an unexpected bonus in her first season in high school.
“I’ve never experienced anything like this before,” she said.
Then again, neither have her sisters. Bellarmine had never won a game at district prior to last weekend.
“It’s been a really special season,” Sarah said, “one that I’ll always remember.”
When they’re not playing for the Lions, the trio focuses on schoolwork, playing music, and, of course, holding batting practice in their backyard.
So who would come out on top in a slugfest?
“Becca would probably win,” Sarah said.
Rachel was torn. “Becca is the most consistent, but Sarah could probably hit it the farthest.”
“Sarah,” Rebecca finally decided, before glancing at Rachel. “No offense.”
And all three of them broke into giggles.
FASTPITCH STATE TOURNAMENT SCHEDULES
Class 4A
At Merkel Field, Spokane
Today’s first-round schedule: 10 a.m. games – Bothell vs. Bellarmine Prep, Central Kitsap vs. Walla Walla, Central Valley vs. Jefferson, Kentlake vs. Monroe; 12 p.m. games – Marysville-Pilchuck vs. Emerald Ridge, South Kitsap vs. Woodinville, Tahoma vs. Richland, Inglemoor vs. Rogers (Puyallup).
Class 3A
At Regional Athletic Complex, Lacey
Today’s first-round schedule: 9 a.m. games – Bonney Lake vs. Lake Washington, University vs. Wilson, Enumclaw vs. Shadle Park, Liberty vs. Everett; 12 p.m. games – Bainbridge vs. Camas, Mountain View vs. Juanita, Meadowdale vs. Peninsula, Mount Si vs. Kamiakin.
Class 2A
At Carlon Park, Selah
Today’s first-round schedule: 10 a.m. games – Tumwater vs. Cheney, White River vs. Granite Falls, Selah vs. Fife, Sehome vs. Interlake; 12 p.m. games – Ellensburg vs. Franklin Pierce, Lynden vs. W.F. West, Aberdeen vs. Mount Baker, Sequim vs. West Valley (Spokane).
Class 1A
At Columbia Playfield, Richland
Today’s first-round schedule: 10 a.m. games – Okanogan vs. Montesano, Meridian vs. Connell, Castle Rock vs. Cedar Park Christian, River View vs. Lakeside; 12 p.m. games – Hoquiam vs. Colville, Zillah vs. Nooksack Valley, Cascade vs. Orting, Lynden Christian vs. Onalaska.
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