By Elizabeth Contreras

VYPE: What grade are you in and when did you start playing softball?
Kaylee Baxter: I’m going to be a junior. I fell in love with softball from the beginning. My grandma had a ball in my hand ever since I could walk. I’m a utility player but primarily a third baseman.

VYPE: Who has been a big influence in your life?
KB: My sister. She’s the greatest role model. Even through life’s biggest challenges, she’s never fallen short of making me feel loved or understood.

VYPE: What makes Southmoore a great place to play softball?
KB: Southmoore is the definition of home. The coaches value you on a different level. The girls the sport surrounds you with are your biggest fans, biggest supporters, and even your best friends.

VYPE: What do you love most about playing softball, and what keeps you coming back each season?
KB: My teammates. They make the sport lovable. We pick each other up when we’re down and celebrate wins like they’re our own. Having pure teammates plays a big part in loving the game.

VYPE: How has being part of your team shaped you as a person?
KB: The challenges I face on the field not only grow my game but most definitely my character. You learn how to handle failure—but most importantly, you learn how to be selfless, because there’s no “I” in team.

VYPE: If you could give advice to a younger player just starting out, what would you say?
KB: Never take anything for granted, because you’ll spend the rest of your years wishing you could go back.

VYPE: What’s one goal you’ve set for yourself this season, and how are you working toward it?
KB: This season I want to strive for good academics while performing at a high level. I’m going to put the STUDENT in student-athlete.

VYPE: What’s a moment from your softball journey that you’ll never forget?
KB: Going to state was the greatest feeling. The atmosphere there is amazing—I believe everyone should get to experience state at least once in their life.

VYPE: What is something you hope you are remembered for after you graduate?
KB: I just hope people remember me as a good person.