VYPE: What motivates you?
MP: My teammates motivate me. They encourage me to be my best.
VYPE: Who are some of your biggest influences or role models?
MP: Jesus is my role model. I strive my best to be like him. Being a senior, I try to set a good example to my younger teammates.
VYPE: What teacher has had the biggest impact on your life?
MP: My coach, Chris Ray, has made a huge impact in my life. The lesson he’s taught me on the field I’ll continue to use the rest of my life.
VYPE: What has it taken to be successful in your sports?
MP: You have to have a short memory. More times than not, you’re going to fail. You have to learn from your mistakes and make the next play. If you continue to drown in your mistakes, you’ll never grow.
VYPE: What has been the highlight moment of your career?
MP: One of my most rememberable highlights was when I pitched at Bartlesville my sophomore year. It was snowing and everyone was freezing. The wind was terrible, but I continued to throw strikes. I can’t remember how many batters I struck out, but I sure did have a bunch of fun that day.
VYPE: Is there an opponent that you enjoy beating the most?
MP: Pryor. They’ve always put up a fight when we face them. The score is close every time. My dad is originally from Pryor too, so beating them is always fun.
VYPE: Which teammate do you enjoy working against the most with in practice?
MP: Charlea Cochran is a fun teammate to go against. She loves the sport and is very competitive. It’s important to match yourself up with someone like her. It makes you better.
VYPE: What are your plans after high school?
MP: After high school, I’m going to finish some basic classes at NSU and then make the move to Rogers State University in Claremore. I plan to attend their nursing school and obtain my nursing license. I’m not sure what specialty I would like to go in yet, just as long as I’m helping people.
VYPE: What does it mean to you to represent your school and community when you play?MP: It’s a responsibility I enjoy having. I’m thankful I’m able to do the things I love while representing a community I’m grateful for.
