- December 20, 2024
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Olympia High’s Madden Bourst would be mighty impressive if you just talked about his athletic achievements.
As a two-sport athlete in baseball and wrestling, Bourst was named the 2024 Olympia High Athlete of the Year; won the individual wrestling district and metro conference championships; led the Titans’ baseball team in on-base percentage in 2024 — while hitting .308 and stealing 12 bases; and was named to the baseball academic All-Metro Conference and All-State teams.
Now, add in the fact that Bourst finished his senior year as Olympia’s valedictorian, with a 5.41 GPA, and will be attending the U.S. Naval Academy in the fall, and, well, impressive starts to seem like not a strong enough word to describe the future Midshipman.
Age: 18
Sport: Baseball, Wrestling
Grade: Senior
School: Olympia High
How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?
It is truly an honor to gain recognition for being a top athlete in an area full of such talented athletes. This feels rewarding because of all the long hours I put into both sports I am involved in.
What do you like the most about baseball?
I would have to say hitting is the most enjoyable part of baseball. There is nothing better than putting a good barrel on a baseball.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing sports?
I would say that you have to learn to not chase outcomes. You can hit a ball as hard as you can straight to the centerfielder on a line drive and still get out. Therefore, it is important to not see that as a negative, because if that ball is hit just a tad to the right or left, it will be a hit every time. Sometimes, you just can’t control everything.
Who is your favorite athlete?
I have always enjoyed watching Andrew McCutchen play. He would have to be my favorite athlete because of his tenacity and the great spirit he brings to Pirates baseball.
Is there someone after whom you try to model your game?
In wrestling, I would always enjoy learning new tilts from Spencer Lee and would try to model my wrestling after him.
What is your favorite non-sports hobby?
Playing the cello.
What is your favorite subject in school?
Calculus. I had a great teacher, and he helped me find a new passion for math.
What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island? Why?
Water, phone and a jet, so I can get out of there.
What is your favorite movie? Why?
“Good Will Hunting.” I was fascinated by the mind of Will throughout the movie.
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?
Jonny Kim, from being a Navy Seal to being an astronaut and (then) becoming a doctor, I have many questions to ask about his life and what drives him.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?
I would love to travel to Rome during the period of the prime Roman Empire. I would like to see some of the daily events and fights that occurred in the Colosseum.
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?
Just keep working hard and the results will come.
If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?
What is life like in the military?
Who is your favorite superhero?
Thor. I always loved watching his movies and looked up to his strength and courage.
Who is your favorite supervillain?
The Joker. His ability to be cunning and sly is truly fascinating.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Flying, being able to get anywhere without a car or plane would make life tremendously easier.
If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go and why?
Egypt, to see the pyramids; Rome, to see the Colosseum; and Norway, to ski and visit family.
If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why?
Cheetah. They are probably one of the coolest animals.
What is your most controversial food take?
Bleu cheese is disgusting.
Does pineapple belong on pizza?
Yes, I do enjoy a good Hawaiian slice of pizza.
