VYPE: What grade are you in this year, how long have you been playing and what
position do you play?
Autumn Kinnaird: I am a senior in high school and have been a 4-year varsity starter, and 3-year letterman, I play Outfield/ Catcher. I started playing softball when I was about 5-6 years old in little league Outfield/ Catcher
VYPE: What inspired you to play your sport, and who are your biggest influences? AK: My dad has been my biggest influence; he’s coached me for years and encouraged me to get into the competitive side of softball he’s really shaped who I am today as a player because of how hard he’s pushed me from a young age
VYPE: What is your specific role on the team, and how do you prepare for it? AK: My specific role on the team is leader; it’s my job to show up focused and positive because I am a senior and the younger girls feed off that energy. My job before games is to be the voice to lock everyone in and be focused on our game, we know we can play no matter the opponent
VYPE: Can you share a highlight or memorable moment from last season? AK: Being able to catch my sister her senior year and I just remember hugging her when we lost knowing that was our last game we’d ever play together
VYPE: Where do you see yourself in five years, both in sports and outside of it? AK: In 5 years, I’ll be finishing my senior year of college and competing in my senior year of softball at the University of Tulsa
VYPE: Who are some of your biggest influences or role models? Why? AK: My family helped push me and have made me who I am, my sister specifically influenced me to push myself to play at the highest level
VYPE: What advice would you give to younger players aspiring to play high school sports? AK: Train your mental game, softball isn’t always about the physical talent it won’t always be easy, and you must believe in yourself and your abilities first before other people will, carry yourself with pride and a “swagger”
VYPE: What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of sports? AK: I enjoy going to the gym and working out, I enjoy doing nails and I enjoy just spending time with family and friends when I have time outside of sports
VYPE: What does it mean to you to represent your school and community when you play?
AK: It means showing pride and effort along with a positive attitude to represent something bigger than myself and my accomplishments.
