Coupeville Sports

Madeline Roberts, college softball slap-hittin’ sensation. (John Fisken photos)

Roberts, during her CHS days, with mom Lisa Edlin and lil’ sis Ally Roberts.

Kenzi LaRue operates on the tennis court during her freshman season.

LaRue enjoys her time on the volleyball court.

Connected by a day, connected by their energy, connected by their spirit.

Madeline Roberts and Kenzi LaRue, who share a birthday today, have both worn the red and black for Coupeville High School, and done it with style and conviction.

Though they didn’t play together, being four years apart and partial to different sports, their paths are not that different.

Both are part of a bold, vibrant group of young women who would make the pioneers of Title IX proud.

The days when female sports teams had a “Lady” slapped on their uniforms are (mostly) gone.

There are no Lady Wolves at Coupeville. Just Wolves.

Boys. Girls. Both are athletes. Both put in just as much hard work, sweat and effort. Both deserve equal coverage for equal play.

For Roberts and LaRue, I doubt either one ever had to think about that. And that’s exactly how it should be.

Maddy strode the softball diamond like a boss, confident in herself and her skills.

A slap-hittin’ sensation, she rode her talents and drive to earn a college softball scholarship, then shocked the world by also playing basketball once she got to Shoreline Community College.

Part of a huge, athletically-inclined family, Roberts was born to be a star and has lived up to that heritage.

LaRue, lil’ sis to former Wolf football star Caleb Valko, is just beginning to seize her moment.

As a freshman last year she played volleyball and tennis and her ease with both games grew as the seasons progressed.

Never shy, she embraced her teammates and the spotlight, and the future is a bright one for the bubbly Kenzi.

As both enjoy their cake day, a quick happy birthday and this thought:

You both are strong, talented young women. Be proud of yourselves, every day, and never stop reaching for more.