Coupeville Sports

Gebhard, canine companion shine on big stage

February 12, 2025 by David Svien

Gabriella Gebhard stands tall at the Westminster Dog Show in New York. (Photos courtesy Stephanie Gebhard)

It’s the biggest show of the year.

The annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is in its 149th edition and returned to the white-hot spotlight of Madison Square Garden for the first time in five years.

Among the competitors, and making a return trip, was Coupeville High School senior Gabriella Gebhard.

The accomplished dog handler was accompanied by Everest (Set’r Ridge’s Climbing to the Top), who she whelped, trained, and groomed since birth.

Gebhard has been one of the top Juniors in the country over the past couple of years, with her and her pooches bringing home a truckload of ribbons and trophies.

Posted in AKC dog showing | Tagged AKC, CHS Wolves, dog showing, Gabriella Gebhard, Westminster | Leave a Comment »

Intrepid photographer, inspired pics

February 12, 2025 by David Svien

Jada Heaton brings joy to the court. (Bailey Thule photos)

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again.

Bailey Thule is my favorite photographer working the sidelines at Coupeville High School.

The Wolf senior has repeatedly demonstrated that she has a stellar eye for capturing pics which get past staged shots and truly showcase the personalities of her classmates.

She puts her subjects at ease and draws out something special, as seen in this latest batch of photos.

I don’t know what Bailey’s plans are for after high school.

But wherever she goes, and whatever she does down the road, I hope she keeps a camera nearby.

Posted in Girls Basketball | Tagged Bailey Thule, Cheer, CHS Wolves, girls basketball, Jada Heaton, Mia Farris | Leave a Comment »

You, an umpire? Yes!!

February 11, 2025 by David Svien

Want to be in charge? Make the final call? Wear a snazzy uniform?

All of that (and more) can be yours if you step up and help local baseball and softball players by volunteering as an umpire with Central Whidbey Little League.

CWLL, which closes player registration Feb. 28, has two umpires in place for this spring, but needs more to be able to pull off the season.

James Meek, Umpire in Charge for the league, has issued the following statement:

Hello Central Whidbey Community!

I hope this letter finds you well.

I am reaching out on behalf of Central Whidbey Little League to seek assistance with our umpiring needs for the upcoming season.

Our league provides a positive and structured environment where young athletes can develop their skills, sportsmanship, and love for the game.

However, to ensure a successful season, we rely on dedicated volunteers and community members to help officiate our games.

We need umpires to support our teams and keep our games running smoothly.

Whether you are an experienced umpire or someone willing to learn, we welcome all levels of involvement.

Training and resources can be provided for those new to the role, and any time you can contribute would be greatly appreciated.

We currently have two committed umpires. However, we have softball, and minor and major league baseball needing umpires.

Your support would significantly impact our players, coaches, and the overall experience of our league.

If you or someone you know is interested in assisting with umpiring, please contact me at (360) 320-3717 or through Facebook Messenger.

We truly appreciate your consideration and any help you can offer.

Thank you for your time and support keeping youth baseball and softball a thriving part of our community.

We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

James Meek
Umpire in Charge
Central Whidbey Little League

Posted in Little League | Tagged baseball, Central Whidbey Little League, Softball, spring, umpires | Leave a Comment »

Hardwood heroes open playoffs at home

February 11, 2025 by David Svien

Lyla Stuurmans and friends are ready to tip off playoff action. (Photos by JohnsPhotos.net)

The path is set, and the journey begins on their own court.

Both the Coupeville High School girls’ and boys’ basketball teams open the double-elimination District 1/2 tourney in the CHS gym this Thursday, Feb. 13.

Megan Richter’s squad of female hardcourt assassins host Auburn Adventist Academy at 7:00 PM, with Brad Sherman’s bruisers welcoming Friday Harbor to Cow Town for a 5:00 PM tipoff.

Win or lose, both Wolf teams will live to play at least one more postseason game as the tourney runs between Feb. 13-22.

Two schools advance to state from each royal rumble, with seven boys’ teams and six girls’ squads competing for the tickets.

The Wolf girls are 8-10 heading into the playoffs, with Auburn Adventist coming in at 6-7.

Coupeville’s boys sit at 7-12, and this is their third meeting with Friday Harbor (4-14) this season, having won 47-43 on the road and 50-46 at home on Senior Night.