Athlete Profile: Tucker Bouche

Oconto Falls senior hoping to make more memories on baseball field

Oconto Falls High School senior Tucker Bouche intends to play baseball while attending UW-La Crosse in the coming years, but he’s hoping to make more memories with his Panther teammates this spring before graduating.

Bouche had a memorable game in the team’s 3-0 North Eastern Conference victory over Freedom on May 5. Bouche pitched all seven innings, striking out 12 batters and allowing just one hit.

Bouche made the NEC honorable mention team in his sophomore season.

Q: When did your interest in baseball begin?

A: I was introduced to baseball at an early age, but my first love for the game came from playing one-on-one wiffle ball with a childhood friend of mine (Cooper Polczinski). We would play hours on end and even decided to play indoors at his house, in the living room, when it rained.

Q: What is your favorite part about the baseball season?

A: I truly enjoy the bus rides and practices with the boys. Laughing, competing and having fun makes the sport that much better.

Q: What has baseball taught you over the years?

A: The biggest thing I’ve learned in baseball is how to keep a steady head when things don’t go your way. All of my coaches, at one point or another, have told me that errors and bad things are going to happen. You need to figure out how to minimize those errors and move on.

Q: What are your individual goals for your senior season?

A: I’m hoping to leave a lasting impression on my team and the baseball organization. I want people to enjoy playing baseball as well as want to compete and be the best version of themselves.

Q: What will be the biggest key to team success this spring?

A: If we can wrap our heads around the game in a focused, competitive and loose mindset, I’m confident in our team’s ability to compete as well as be successful.

Q: You plan on playing baseball at UW-La Crosse after high school. With that in mind, how do you want to cap your high school career?

A: I want to make the best memories with my high school team because of all the time and effort we have put into baseball.

Q: What’s your favorite memory of competing on the Oconto Falls baseball team?

A: We had a rain practice that turned out to be one of the most fun practices ever. It was during our fall ball team last year, but those who were there can vouch for it.

Q: Favorite TV show, movie, and musical artist?

A: TV show — “Chuck.” Movie — “Cars” (the original). Musical artist — Not sure I have a favorite. I love all kinds of music.

Q: Do you have any rituals you go through before a game starts?

A: I have learned the best way to start a game is to have a light sweat as well as be mentally loose — or, as we say on the team, “vibing.” To do that, I run a bit and do tons of stretches that I’ve gathered throughout the years.

Q: Name one thing about yourself that not many people know.

A: I’m a big Marvel and DC fan.

Q: What’s the greatest piece of advice you have ever been told?

A: You can’t hit the ball if you don’t take the bat off your shoulder.

Q: What are some things you hope to accomplish after graduating high school?

A: I plan to pursue a major in elementary education as well as dive into a baseball organization following college. My hopes are to stay in baseball as long as I can and create a ton of lasting memories.

AT A GLANCE

Athlete: Tucker Bouche

Sport: Baseball

Positions: Pitcher, shortstop

School: Oconto Falls High School

Year: Senior