Senior outfielder Walker Olis became only the second boxer in school history to be named Northwest Conference Player of the Year this season. Olis broke three school records this season in stolen bases, runs and walks.
In addition to the school records, Olis was the conference leader in nearly all offensive catagories. He was first in batting average at .435, led in homeruns with 11, first in stolen bases with 27 on 28 attempts, he also led in runs scored with 56 and walks with 43.
With all the individual records and accolades that Olis was able to accomplish this season, he credits a large majority of his success to his teammates.
“A lot of the success had to do with the guys around me who played well,” said Olis. “I had kind of established myself in the league the past year and I knew that I would get pitched around. I was able to stay patient at the plate, knowing that my teammates would get the job done, and really that was the mindset our team had this year. I think that made our lineup very scary to have to pitch against this season.”
Olis was not only one of the top conference leaders offensively, he also was one of the best outfielders in the conference throwing out six base runners and committing only one error in 104 chances.
In a season filled with highlights, Olis pointed out that one of his favorite memories of the season was the series against rival school Linfield University.
“I think the season sweep of Linfield was a shining moment for the team and the seniors especially because Linfield has had our number over our entire career,” Olis said.
With all of the accomplishments Olis has had this season, he has begun to draw interest from some minor league scouts.
“I’ve dreamed of playing in the MLB since I was a child, just like every other little boy around the country,” said Olis. “If I get the opportunity to live that dream I will take it.”
Olis plans on continuing his education in graduate school and hopefully his baseball career as well.
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