Mackenzee Collins of South Whidbey High winds up for a pitch Thursday afternoon against Granite Falls on April 19, 2018. (Kevin Clark / The Herald)

Mackenzee Collins of South Whidbey High winds up for a pitch Thursday afternoon against Granite Falls on April 19, 2018. (Kevin Clark / The Herald)

Q&A with South Whidbey softball pitcher Mackenzee Collins

Collins, who will pitch at Colorado State next season, plays to honor the memory of her father, Tim.

Softball was at the heart of the relationship between former South Whidbey coach Tim Collins and his daughter Mackenzee.

When Mackenzee started playing as an 8-year-old, Tim became her first pitching coach. In 2014, he took over as the Falcons’ head coach, and the next year led South Whidbey to a Class 1A state tournament berth, with Mackenzee, then a freshman, as one of the Falcons’ top pitchers.

After Tim passed away in August 2015, Mackenzee incorporated softball into her healing process.

“It really helped that softball was our thing,” she said. “I’m playing for him now. I know that’s what he would want me to do. Softball has always been my escape. I don’t have to deal with everyday problems (on the field). That was my way of coping with everything — pushing through (obstacles) and working hard.”

Collins, now a senior, has become the best pitcher in the Cascade Conference, thanks in part to her experience with the Washington Ladyhawks and Absolute Blast select programs. Last November, she signed an NCAA letter of intent to continue her career at Colorado State University.

“Her strengths are her speed, power and placement,” Falcons coach Alexandra Goheen said. “She has a variety of pitches, and she throws them all well. The more pressure on her, the better she does.”

The Herald recently spoke with Collins about her softball career, other interests and future plans.

What do you love the most about softball?

You have so much pressure on you as a pitcher, and I enjoy the feeling of being a leader and having everyone look to (me) to be able to strike people out.

What are the main reasons for the success that you’ve had?

One is how much time I’ve put into it. It all started with my dad when I was younger. No matter what else was going on, we always made time to (practice). That made a big difference. The second is my confidence. It’s always something that I’ve had. As a pitcher, you have to have an attitude on the mound — “This is my field, and I’m going to get you out.” I feel like I’ve really mastered that.

Who has had the biggest influence on your softball career?

My pitching coach Danica Anaya and her husband, Gustavo. She was there for me after my dad passed away. They’ve played a huge part in how I’ve developed as a pitcher and a person. They’re super positive, the two best people I know.

Why did you choose Colorado State University?

It was the perfect school for me. I went to visit and fell in love with the campus and surrounding area. The players were super (friendly) and welcoming, and the coaches were nice and knowledgeable. The facilities were good. I’ve always wanted to play at a Division-I school, so this is a dream come true.

What would you like to study in college?

I’ve always known that I want to be an English teacher and coach. My mom teaches math, and my dad taught English and math, so I’ve grown up with it. I want to be in a career that touches peoples’ lives. It sounds cheesy, but I want to make a difference.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love reading and writing. Jodi Picoult is my favorite author. She writes about controversial issues like gun control and teen suicide. I love her writing; I’ve read quite a few of her books. I also enjoy hanging out with my friends. We’ll go get food sometimes. My favorite restaurant is Freeland Cafe here on the island. (My go-to order) is french toast, bacon and chocolate milk.

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Sports

Jackson senior and UW commit Allie Thomsen is The Herald's 2025 All-Area Softball Hitter of the Year. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
The Herald’s 2025 Softball Hitter of the Year: Allie Thomsen

The Jackson senior had a .544 batting average and 1.600 OPS while striking out just once.

Stanwood’s Rubi Lopez cheers after getting a base hit during the 3A District 1 championship game against Sedro-Woolley on Thursday, May 15, 2025 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Wesco all-league softball teams announced

Wesco has announced its all-league teams for boys soccer. WESCO 4A First… Continue reading

Taylor Dollard of the Everett AquaSox throws a pitch in a 5-2 victory over the Tri-City Dust Devils at Funko Field on Wednesday, June 12, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Shari Sommerfeld / Everett AquaSox)
Strong pitching anchors AquaSox, sinks Tri-City

Everett AquaSox pitching held Tri-City Dust Devils to just two… Continue reading

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) hands off to running back Zach Charbonnet (26) during minicamp at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Edwin Hooper, Seattle Seahawks)
Dave Boling: Sam Darnold’s first priority is the run game

For those Seattle Seahawks fans curious about the early… Continue reading

Pacers rely on unlikely heroes, take 2-1 NBA Finals lead

Indiana Pacers Coach Rick Carlisle sounds like a nature lover… Continue reading

Danny O’Neil: If you’re a Sonics fan, cackle along with me

I did not shout in excitement when Indiana’s Obi Toppin dunked home… Continue reading

Nneka Ogwumike releases a shot against the Minnesota Lynx at Climate Pledge Arena on June 11, 2025. (Photo courtesy of the Seattle Storm)
Storm stop Lynx’s perfect season

The Minnesota Lynx’s perfect start to the season has ended. Pounding the… Continue reading

Edmonds-Woodway senior Alex Plumis is The Herald’s 2025 Boys Soccer Offensive Player of the Year on Thursday, June 5, 2025 in Edmonds, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
The Herald’s 2025 Boys Soccer Offensive Player of the Year: Alex Plumis

The Edmonds-Woodway senior scored 23 goals and dished nine assists.

Wesco all-league boys soccer teams announced

Wesco has announced its all-league teams for boys soccer. WESCO 4A First… Continue reading

Everett's Luis Suisbel hit a walkoff solo home run against Tri-City at Funko Field on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Shari Sommerfeld / Everett AquaSox)
AquaSox Sweep Dust Devils in Doubleheader

Playing two games to account for a May 11 rainout… Continue reading

TJ Oshie and Mike Murphy pose for a picture in the Washington Capitals' locker room in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 9, 2018. Oshie and the Capitals would win the Stanley Cup later that season. (Photo courtesy of Mike Murphy)
Remembering TJ Oshie’s hockey origins after his NHL retirement

The Everett native’s youth coach recalls his early playing days and impact on Seattle Jr. Hockey.

Everett Firefighters (from left to right) Andy Denzel, Galen Wallace and climb team captain Mike Dunmire prepare to climb the Columbia Tower staircase in Seattle during the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Firefighter Stairclimb on March 9, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Steve Baer / FireDogPhotos)
Everett Fire Department honored as top Columbia Tower climb fundraiser

50 firefighters combined to raise $81,000 to fight blood cancers.

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.