His grandfather, David Oleson, is a long-time softball coach for West Burlington-Notre Dame.

His parents, Micah and Keli Oleson, were standout athletes in high school. His uncle, Chris Ramirez, is the head baseball coach at Lenoir-Rhyne University.

His cousin, Lauren Summers, is an all-state pitcher for WB-ND.

His older brother, Brady, played baseball at Iowa Wesleyan and his older sister, Elise, is an all-conference first baseman for the WB-ND softball team.

Eli Oleson is busy making a name for himself in the sports world.

Oleson, a freshman on the Notre Dame High School baseball team, is coming off a banner week in which he was 10-for-14 at the plate, scored three runs and drove in five.

Oleson went 4-for-4 last Friday in Class 1A eight-ranked Notre Dame’s 8-5 win over Van Buren County at Keosauqua. That victory clinched the SEI Superconference South Division championship for the Nikes.

Oleson was at it again Saturday, playing a key role in the Nikes’ 6-4 walk-off win over cross-town rival Burlington High School.

With district play starting Saturday, Oleson is finding his groove at just the right time.

The Hawk Eye recently caught up to Oleson, the High School Athlete of the Week, to learn a little more about him.

What is it that you like about baseball?

It is a game of failure, and you learn from your mistakes.

What is your best memory in baseball?

My first varsity hit against Central Lee this year.

How do you and your teammates make practice fun?

We all love the game, so it’s fun to be around each other.

Do you have any pregame or game-day routines and what are they?

I hit before the game with Jaxon (Sadler), Maddox (Deiwold), and Dylan (Kipp).

Who is the funniest person on the team and why?

Lucas Johnson because he is always smiling and making jokes.

Who is your biggest role model and why?

My brother Brady, because he plays college baseball and gives good advice.

What is your favorite subject in school and why?

Science because Mr. (Corey) Lamm is a good teacher, and we talk about track.

What is your favorite meal?

Spaghetti and meatballs

What is your favorite TV show?

The Office

If you won the lottery, what would your first purchase be and why?

I would pay off all of my parents’ bills.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time and why?

Bass fishing because it is exciting.

What is your favorite motivational slogan or quote?

For I can do all things through the Lord God who strengthens me.

What are your future plans for college and career?

To play college baseball and be a strength and conditioning coach for a Division I college.

What is something about yourself that would surprise people?

I have a 3.9 grade point average.