July 2, 2025
ISSUE 27
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EHS athletes ready for next level By Skip Smith Staff Writer
At a high school known for its grit, heart, and small-town pride, a standout group of Eatonville High School athletes is proving that success on the field—or water or range—can lead to big things after graduation. Nine graduates are heading off to compete in collegiate athletics, while one has already turned pro. From baseball diamonds to fishing boats, basketball courts to track vaults, these young competitors are chasing dreams that began on local fields and gyms and now stretch across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Two Cruisers are sticking with
baseball but heading in different directions. Brody Thirtyacre is taking his talents to Clackamas College, a program with a strong track record of developing next-level players. Known for his great pitching and consistent bat, Thirtyacre brings a work ethic and love for the game that made him a fixture in Eatonville's lineup. On the other side of the state, Justen Koch will suit up for the Eastern Oregon University baseball team, stepping into the NAIA ranks. As a sure handed second baseman, Koch looks to help bolster an already strong Mountaineers line up. Basketball continues to be a cornerstone of Eatonville's athletic
success, and this year’s trio of college-bound players proves why. Lillian Bickford is heading to Lower Columbia College, where her size, strength, and basketball IQ make her a valuable addition to a program with a rich tradition. She anchored Eatonville’s frontcourt, earning praise for her rebounding and scoring ability. Tia Schanbeck, known for her quick hands and aggressive defense, is headed to Pierce College. Coaches praised her as a glue player—the kind that locks in on defense, keeps intensity high, and does the gritty work that wins games. Bailey Andersen will be headed to Grand Canyon University to
play on the school’s top-tier club team, equivalent to a varsity squad in both competition level and training intensity. GCU's club system is nationally competitive, and adding Andersen will no doubt improve the team even more. Grace Field is heading to Pierce College to bring her solid infield play and softball instincts to the next level. Field’s intensity and leadership were pivotal in Eatonville's success in recent seasons. Haley Courson, a dynamic midfielder with a tireless motor, is also enrolling at Pierce College to join its women’s soccer team. Known for controlling pace and delivering precise passes, Courson made a name for herself as a playmaker
and team-first competitor. Jaiden Sobczyk, meanwhile, is taking a less conventional—but increasingly competitive—route by joining the fishing team at Simpson University. Yes, collegiate fishing is real and growing fast, and Sobczyk’s success on regional circuits caught the attention of Simpson’s program. Precision, patience, and pattern recognition— skills Sobczyk has honed—will now help him reel in success on the college tour. Ethan Carter is on a unique path. He’ll begin at Pierce College while continuing to train at PLU. After two years, Carter plans to
SPORTS, 5
Celebrate July 4 with festivities in Eatonville Residents in Eatonville are gearing up to celebrate our nation's independence with the Eatonville Business Association annual Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks Show.
The festivities, taking place on July 3 and July 4, promise fun activities for all ages. The fireworks show will start at dusk on Thursday, July 3 at Eatonville Middle School.
Leading up to the fireworks display, activities at the school grounds will start at 5:30 p.m. and feature bounce houses, vendor booths, live entertainment, and food trucks. Parking at the school will be available for a donation, which supports event costs. Limited free street parking is also available, and organizers recommend carpooling. The celebration continues Friday, July 4, with a festive Independence Day parade beginning at noon. The parade route is along Marshall Avenue.
EVENT INFORMATION: July 3: Fireworks and Celebration Activities begin at 5:30 p.m. The fireworks show starts at dusk Paid on-campus parking and limited free street parking are available July 4: Parade Parade starts at noon Parade route: Marshall Avenue and Downtown Eatonville Residents are encouraged to visit the event's website: https://eatonvillebusinessassociation.org/ or contact event organizers directly for more details.