Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Emily and Adam Westlund
Siblings: Avery and Morgan Westlund
Position: Second base
Career highlight: Hitting my first varsity home run to win a conference game.

At what age did you start playing your sport(s)?

I started playing softball when I was around 7 years old. I started playing golf at 17 years old.

Who introduced you to your sport(s)?
My parents introduced me to both of my sports. Tyler Thrune inspired me to play golf.

What is your favorite sport?
Softball.

How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year?
Balancing my academics and athletics was a struggle my freshman year because I was still getting into a routine. As high school progressed, my time management improved and I have little trouble balancing these two aspects of my life.

What is your favorite part about your sport(s)? What about it has caused you to stick with it for this long?
My favorite part of softball is the competitiveness and socializing with friends. I have also met a lot of new people from this sport, whether it was a coach or teammate, who have been very important people in my life.

What would you say is your biggest asset on the court?

I would say my biggest asset is hitting.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?
My most memorable experience in high school sports so far was definitely when I got my first par at golf practice. Another memorable experience was getting to play softball with my best friends.

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?
As a senior, I feel proud looking back throughout high school and seeing my growth. As a person, I believe that I developed a great work ethic and discipline all while having fun and learning a ton. As an athlete, I have significantly improved in both the physical and mental aspects of the game.

Do you have any pre-game rituals/routines/superstitions?
I always have to have a cherry Bubbl’r before every game. Also, I got a new helmet a few years ago and never took the zip ties off, but now I feel like they need to stay there.

Do you take any extra steps to prepare for a big game, outside of regular training?
I like to spend extra time hitting in a cage either after practice or earlier before the game.

What has been your favorite experience with being a senior this year?

I enjoy the lighter load academically with fewer classes in my schedule. This has allowed me to make time for other experiences such as golf and work.

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to give a shout out to?
My teammate Emma Murphy and my coaches Mitch Ahrens, Schoen and Abby Hanamann.

Any hobbies outside of sports?
I like to lift, spend time with friends, shop and try new things.

Favorite food?
Qdoba bowls or Casco One Stop pepperoni pizza.

Favorite movie/TV show?
My favorite show is “Suits.”

Future plans? (college, major, career, etc.)

I plan on attending the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse to major in kinesiology.