The Olympian

The Olympian's high school athletes of the week

• Published March 27, 2008

Samantha McDonell, Black Hills fastpitch

Age: 15

Year: Freshman

Family: Parents, Phil and Dee McDonell, no siblings.

Other sports played: volleyball.

About last week: Pitched a two-hitter and hit a three-run home run in the sixth inning of a 7-2 win against Rochester. In an 8-7 loss to Mark Morris, she struck out six and didn't allow a walk.

How long have you played fastpitch?: "Since third grade."

If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be?: "Jennie Finch (fastpitch pitcher)."

If you won the lottery, what would you buy?: "Ahh, I don't know. I'd help charity and put it in savings or buy a house."

A song that pumps you up?: "No particular song. Rap or hip-hop."

Favorite subject?: "Math."

If you could trade places with someone for a day, who would it be?: "Any pro athlete."

Favorite dinner?: "Mexican food."

Favorite movie: "I'll say the last one I saw. I Am Legend."

What's your favorite sports moment?: "Winning state and nationals for 12-U softball. Nationals were in Oregon."

Coach Janene Thompson's comments: "Thank goodness she's only freshman. She's absolutely a team player. Always the last one to leave, works hard. She's a very strong batter. She's hitting .500 or better for the season. Every game she's been 2-4 or 3-5. She's consistent."

Adam Conley, Olympia baseball

Age: 17 (18 in May).

Year: Senior

Family: Parents, Larry and Katy Conley, brother Jeremy.

Other sports played: Summer baseball. Conley has verbally committed to WSU.

About last week: Conley threw a two-hit, complete-game shutout in a 1-0 win against Stadium. He struck out 13 and walked one.

How long have you played baseball?: "Shoot. It's been a while. I started when I was 4. That was in Eastern Washington. In Kennewick."

If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be?: "Oh man. There are two people. One of them is Chris Farley. Then the other one would be Nolan Ryan. A big part of me growing up was watching him throw. He was a battler."

If you won the lottery, what would you buy?: "Me and my mom are always joking. She drives a Jetta. I'd buy her a new car. A little convertible."