VYPE: Kaylee, what position do you play for the Southmoore SaberCats softball team?
Kaylee Baxter: Third base.
VYPE: What was the biggest surprise this season?
KB: The biggest surprise this season was how connected we were. Two weeks before season we got a new head coach, so we didn’t expect much. By the end of the season, I think we can all collectively say it was for the better. Coach Filer was our blessing in disguise! Couldn’t imagine ball without her!
VYPE: Do you have a favorite moment from this season?
KB: My favorite moment from this season had to be the game against Stillwater although we lost 20-19 it was an amazing experience to see all aspects of the team come together as one and put up a big product. I got to see my best friends succeed under the big lights with a huge crowd and I got to make great memories that I’ll never forget.
VYPE: What do you love about your teammates at SHS?
KB: My favorite thing about my teammates is they have always had my back; it didn’t matter if I was on or off the field, they were there to pick me up every single time. Couldn’t have asked for a better team!
VYPE: What are your strengths in softball?
KB: I think my strength is softball IQ. A perk of growing up around the game is you learn every day. Then when you’re older you just put your learning to the test. The thing I need to be better about is learning how to take failure. I have an expectation for myself, and I don’t do very well if I don’t meet my standards.
VYPE: Which teammate is the most vocal and who keeps everyone laughing?
KB: The most vocal has to be Kandace Burnett, over these past few seasons I’ve got to know her on a different level. I’ve never met a more dedicated player. No matter if she’s leading the team on the field or cracking off jokes in the dugout, she’s always got her eyes on the prize. The person that always keeps everyone smiling has to be Lucely Kutz. She’s one of the best athletes I’ve ever seen and one of the funniest. I’m very blessed to call both of these athletes my teammates but more importantly my best friends.
VYPE: Who inspires you?
KB: My grandma inspires me. If you have ever got the pleasure of meeting my grandma, you would know how much of a light to the world she is. She’s touched so many people and been a part of all these little girl’s dreams, she no longer goes by her name she goes by grandma. She went from having five grandkids to 35 in a single season. I couldn’t thank my lord and savior more for giving me such a great best friend!
VYPE: What is your favorite subject in school, and do you have a favorite teacher?
KB: My favorite subject in school is science. It’s very intriguing and fascinating because it happens in real life almost every day. Although I’ve had my fair share of teachers one teacher has touched my heart a little more. Mrs. Cai wasn’t just an ordinary teacher, she fought to bring the best out of all of us each day. She was uplifting, kind, and true. She cared in all aspects of our lives and would give the best advice!
VYPE: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
KB: In my free time I hang out with my sister. My sister is one of the best people to ever touch earth. She’s so funny and just so fun to be around. Not only do I get to be around such a great person, but I get to be around her mini me. I’m so grateful to have a front row seat in watching her change into the great mother she is.
