By Colin Anderson | Photo by Jason Duchow Photography
Ethan Butler, Senior
Now in his senior year, Ethan Butler has excelled on both the basketball court and the baseball diamond. He’s grown up playing both sports and worked hard to achieve his goals. After his freshman season, a torn labrum in his shoulder would put a dent in some of those goals. The injury would cost him his sophomore seasons in both sports, but Ethan was committed to both teams and was ready for the tough rehab ahead. “I have worked hard to rehab my shoulder and come back to where I was before the injury. I feel like I have been able to overcome it to play solid basketball this year,” he said.
Ethan was named captain of the basketball team this past season and is hoping to earn another All-League honor to his baseball resumé this spring. At school he is secretary of the National Honor Society, and when he’s not there he enjoys being outside with family and friends. “When not on a baseball field or basketball court, I can be found outside hunting, fishing, or hiking and camping with friends and family,” he stated.
Ethan has always had a passion for outdoor pursuits and can recall his first hunt with his dad when he was only in kindergarten: “… The close encounter we had with a bull elk really ignited my love for the outdoors. As a result, my future career path has always involved the outdoors.” While he hopes of continuing his baseball career at the next level, Ethan also wants to find a fit where he can study for an outdoor career such as a fisheries or wildlife biologist. “I want to be able to help preserve and enhance the forests and bodies of water, so they are around for future generations.”
Ethan has really enjoyed his time as a Bulldog, especially during basketball, in which the season can run a bit longer than other sports. “You spend a lot of time getting to know your teammates and building friendships,” he shared. He’s also grateful for the lessons and experiences through competing that will have an impact on his future. “In all sports there is a big commitment of time from the player and their family in order to excel and for the athlete to push to improve each day. There are no shortcuts in sports, and if you want to be the best you can be, it takes time and a lot of hard work.”