Athlete of the Week - Windermere Observer: Will Ross

The Windermere Little League 12U National All-Star team defeated Dr. Phillips in the District 14 Final thanks, in part, to a stellar pitching performance from Will Ross. Ross allowed just one run in 5 2/3 innings of work, helping to lead his team to the 14-1 victory.

Tell us about limiting Dr. Phillips to just one run in the district championship.

My team really helped me out in the field, making some good plays. I just wanted to get ahead in the count against every batter.

What’s it like preparing for All-Stars after you’ve all been on different teams during the regular season?

It’s hard in the beginning, but we’ve all been around each other for so long, so we all know each other pretty well. Once we start going through practices and stuff, we all start bonding together.

How do you approach pitching and hitting?

When I pitch, I want to know the umpire’s strike zone. Then, when I go to hit, I know where he likes to call the pitches — so I kind of have a head start.

What’s your favorite memory from the past season?

Probably the championship game (against Dr. Phillips). We all played together as a team.

What do you love about the game?

Just being outside and you don’t have to think about anything — you just play.

What’s the most interesting thing you learned about in school this past year?

Probably world history. We learned about ancient Egypt.

What’s your dream job?

Probably to be a sports broadcaster or something.

What is your least favorite chore around the house?

Mowing the yard — it’s the heat.

If you could be any type of animal, what animal would you be?

A cheetah, so I could run fast — because I can’t run fast right now.

What’s your favorite television show?

“American Pickers.” It shows the history of objects, and I find that pretty interesting.