Meet Karsten Ingersoll. If you've been to any Bonney Lake High School sporting event, you've likely seen him—front and center, the loudest voice in the crowd, decked out in Panther gear, rallying his classmates with an energy that never wavers. But when spring rolls around, the Bonney Lake senior trades his spot in the stands for first base, where he becomes the one fans cheer for.
A Passion for Baseball
Karsten's love for baseball began at age four, swinging a plastic bat in T-ball. By the time he reached Little League, he was an All-Star, and his passion for the game ignited. He took his skills to the next level, playing select travel ball with the Diamond Sports Bulldogs 18U Premier team. His club team plays year-round, training in the fall and competing in summer tournaments nationwide. Just before the high school season, the Bulldogs traveled to Arizona, where they not only competed but won the tournament, bringing home championship rings as proof.
Now, as Bonney Lake moves into the ultra-competitive SPSL 4A division, Karsten sees opportunity rather than obstacle.
“We are moving to 4A, and obviously, that is going to be a big step up and a huge challenge for us, but I have no fear,” Karsten said. “I’m ready to face tough competition, and I want to help lead our team to the playoffs. I want my teammates to know that just because the competition is harder doesn’t mean we can’t go out and compete.”
Beyond the Diamond
Baseball may be his first love, but Karsten’s ambitions extend beyond the field. He plans to sign with Grays Harbor College to continue playing, with aspirations to transfer to Central Washington or a warmer D1 school down the road. His long-term goal? Law school.
“I would like to study law and hopefully become a lawyer after my baseball career, specifically to help cancer patients, as both of my parents have suffered from the disease,” he shared.
The Heart of Bonney Lake
Off the field, Karsten is the definition of school spirit. He’s not just a fan; he’s a force.
“I have a very strong love for our school, and I always love supporting others in my off-seasons,” he said. “When I play, the fans and the cheering always give me a confidence boost, so I hope people will come to baseball and do the same.”
Even when he’s on the field, his energy doesn’t fade. “Whether I’m playing first base cheering on my pitcher or in the dugout hyping up my teammates, I always bring the energy.”
Looking Ahead
Karsten made the difficult decision to step away from football his senior year, prioritizing his baseball career. But that doesn’t mean he’s slowing down. When he’s not at practice or in the gym, he’s still playing baseball—honing his craft and pushing himself to be better.
His goals for his final season as a Panther? “A deep playoff run and, of course, winning state.”
With Karsten leading the charge, both on the field and in the stands, Bonney Lake baseball fans have plenty to cheer about this season.
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