Q&A with Krista Sikes, RHS senior pitcher
Q: How old were you when you started playing softball?
A: I started playing softball when I was 7 years old.
Q: Was there anyone special in your life that helped you become a great player, and how?
A: My parents are the reason I’ve made it this far. They’ve sacrificed so much for me over the years. Not only when it came to athletics but in everyday life. Also I’ve had so many coaches that have made a huge impact.
Q: How do you get ready for a game?
A: I don’t really have a routine, but as a team we always pray before the game. And I don’t eat sunflowers seeds or peanuts or chew gum like the typical softball/baseball player.
Q: What do you like to do when you are not involved with softball?
A: If I’m not playing softball I’m usually either playing basketball or volleyball. I also work at Big Star. And I love spending time with my family at church.
Q: What factors do you feel have influenced you the most to become the player and person you are today?
A: Definitely the adversity I have faced over the years when it came to sports. I have learned nothing is handed to you, you have to go out and work for what you want. I have also learned a lot of lessons that I can apply to life and the game.
Q: Did you have any routines or superstitions before or in a game?
A: I don’t have any routines, but I am very superstitious. We were playing a game this year, and it was very cold. So, I started jumping in the pitching circle, trying to warm up. I started to do good, so I kept jumping the whole game. Also, I don’t like it when the bats are crossed.
Q: What is your favorite softball memory?
A: My favorite memory is when I was playing for the North Alabama Thunder in 12U. We won the state tournament, and it was like 2:00 in the morning.
Q: What softball player has influenced you most in the game?
A: There are a lot, but my favorite is Kelly Barnhill. I have always loved watching Florida softball, and she is one of the best pitchers ever!
Q: What is the greatest obstacle you have had to overcome in your playing career?
A: My greatest obstacle is my confidence on the mound, but I am working to overcome that!
Q: What is life after being a softball player for you?
A: I am going to Calhoun to continue my softball career and hopefully get a degree in childhood development. After that I want to continue playing at the four year level. I hope to have my own kindergarten classroom, and I want to coach at the school I teach at.
Q: What are your thoughts on your season and career possibly coming to an abrupt end?
A: It truly breaks my heart because I know this team was going to make it far. We have played such good competition up to this point, and there was no doubt in my mind we were ready for the postseason. But, I do know God has a plan, and in the grand scheme of things, our health is more important than softball.
