Coupeville Sports

Garth Batchelor (far left) was deeply committed to helping both his own children and their friends play sports. (Photos courtesy Jenny Dill)

There are Wolves, Falcons, and Wildcats, but ultimately, it’s one Whidbey for those involved in sports.

The unexpected death of Garth Batchelor Tuesday leaves a huge hole for the South Whidbey community, and I’m asking Wolf Nation, if possible, to join in helping them.

Batchelor, who along with his wife Olivia, grew up on the south end of the island, was an avid little league coach and athletic supporter.

All three of the couple’s children — Brent, Morgan, and Levi — are strong multi-sport athletes who provided great competition for Coupeville.

Even as I gently harassed Olivia during her own coaching days, imploring her to transfer her children to the middle part of Whidbey, they remained steadfast Falcons — something I respect.

Garth, Olivia, and their children.

This will be a very tough time for the family, beginning with the fact Garth was the primary source of income for the Batchelor’s.

If you have the ability to financially help, please consider doing so. If not, pass on info to others.

Together, we can help keep alive the idea of “One Whidbey,” a band of small-town folk standing together regardless of what school colors we wear.

For more info and to help, pop over to:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/garth-batchelor?qid=2bba1deffa870353f4dcd8e76f3d2df6