From Othello to Pocatello: McDonald’s Path to Big Sky Softball
Camryn McDonald has traveled far from her hometown in Othello, Washington, to become a cornerstone player for the Idaho State Bengals softball team. The left-handed shortstop and leadoff hitter is now preparing for her senior season with the program, capping a three-year run that has included two consecutive Big Sky Conference championships.
McDonald’s journey to Pocatello began in youth sports. She joined her first competitive softball team at age eight and progressed through the Washington Angels program, playing competitive ball through the 18U level under coach Bob Benson. Her standout high school performance at Othello earned her the Central Washington Athletic Conference Most Valuable Player award, establishing her as a prospect for college recruiting.
Idaho State head coach Andrew Rich first observed McDonald at a Washington Angels tournament. That initial scouting proved decisive. “She played hard and did things right. When you just watched her play, it was different. She’s a left-handed hitting shortstop (which) is always a nice thing to have,” Rich said of the prospect who would later join his program.
McDonald committed to Idaho State during a visit to Pocatello, a decision she has reflected on positively as her college career has unfolded. The transition from Washington to Southeast Idaho coincided with the program’s rise in the conference standings.
Three Seasons of Consistent Production
Across her first three seasons with the Bengals, McDonald has appeared in 105 games and established herself as a reliable offensive threat. She has compiled 94 hits, scored 66 runs, and driven in 39 runs, with a career batting average of .357. She has also hit 7 home runs and maintained a .490 slugging percentage through three years of play.
Her performance has improved noticeably in the most recent season. In 2026, McDonald appeared in 54 games and recorded 57 hits—her most productive season to date. She scored 44 runs, hit 5 home runs, and posted a batting average of .419 with a .566 slugging percentage. The jump from her 2025 average of .299 and her 2024 mark of .267 reflects a player hitting her stride as she approaches the conclusion of her college tenure.
Two Championships and Program Success
McDonald has been part of an Idaho State softball program that has captured two consecutive Big Sky Conference championships, along with a tournament victory. The success has created a strong foundation for her final collegiate season.
When reflecting on her time with the Bengals, McDonald emphasized the camaraderie and accomplishments. “It has been nothing but awesome. It’s fun, I play with all my best friends, and it’s just been a roller coaster of emotions. We have two championships now and a tournament win, it’s been exciting,” she said.
As a left-handed hitter batting leadoff, McDonald occupies a position that demands both consistency and the ability to set the table for teammates. Her recent batting surge and career trajectory suggest she will play an important role in the Bengals’ push to contend for a third consecutive conference title.
What Comes Next
McDonald’s senior season will be her final opportunity to contribute to Idaho State softball’s continued success. The Bengals program has established itself as a Big Sky power under Rich’s direction, and McDonald’s offensive production will be critical as the team pursues another championship. Her journey from Othello to Pocatello represents the kind of regional recruiting that has helped build the program into a conference contender.
For more on Southeast Idaho athletics and community news, see Pocatello Hosts Regional Lacrosse Tryouts as Club Eyes Growth Across Idaho.