Coupeville Sports

   Willow Vick hits all the colors of the rainbow as she patrols the outfield for the Venom this spring. (John Fisken photos)

Vick dares the pitcher to try and throw the ball past her.

Willow Vick is not afraid of a challenge.

When Central Whidbey Little League was scrambling around this spring, trying to pull together enough athletes to form a Juniors softball squad, she came to their rescue.

And, despite never having played before, she acquitted herself quite nicely, growing in confidence as the season progressed and being a vital part of a Venom squad which finished 13-3.

Now, as she and twin sister Raven head into their freshman year at Coupeville High School this fall, Willow is ready for new challenges.

She plans to play volleyball in the fall, and is debating between a return to softball or heading out to take advantage of the school’s new track come spring.

Sports are just one part of Vick’s life, however, as she enjoys drawing, swimming, sleeping and working out.

Her musical tastes run to Swedish melodic death metal band Arch Enemy, while movie-wise she’s fond of Mary Poppins.

So, pretty broad spectrum there.

When she is competing, Vick picks volleyball as her primary sport.

“It’s fun, lots of work, keeps you mentally and physically fit,” she said.

She enjoys how sports help her keep in shape and build muscle, but is always working to become a more technically sound athlete.

“I want to get my serves over the net 95% of the time,” Vick said. “I need to work on being louder and more confident.”

She’s also got an eye on improving her softball hitting, and, away from the arena, would like to sharpen her drawing skills and keep her grades up.

Her positive traits are many.

“My technical abilities, I’m a good teammate, good setter I guess, lots of power,” Vick said. “I’m willing to try new things like playing softball for the first time, not afraid to ask for help.”

Whether it’s something she’s done once or a thousand times, she knows she can always turn to her fan club for support.

“My parents, for always pushing me to be my best and to never give up when things get tough,” Vick said. “Friends who support me.

“Lisa Toomey for giving crazy pep talks before, during and after games,” she added. “And my twin for always being someone to compete with and support me.”