State Bank Financial Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Mark and Lisa Pearce

Siblings: Caden, Claire and Kamryn

Position or events: 5k in cross, guard in basketball and 2B/OF in softball

Career highlight: This is a hard question because most of the time, I just enjoyed being on a team with amazing people. In cross country, it was always a goal to PR at every race but it didn’t always happen. But it meant the most when it was a really difficult course or even when a teammate ran well. Another career highlight was going back out for softball my senior year after a really tough junior year, but also being on varsity and taking the role of being a senior leader.  

Who introduced you to the sport?

I was introduced to softball at six years old by my mom and dad when I did tee ball in Hewitt with my sister. But it wasn’t until we were around nine years old when we joined the Marshfield Fastpitch Program. We’ve been with Marshfield Fastpitch since then. 

Has this always been your favorite sport? 

Yes, from the very beginning. 

How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year? 

Academics have always been a top priority of mine. I knew I had to be a student before I was an athlete, which reflects my desire for success in both areas. Throughout my four years, I’ve taken many AP and DC classes which were pretty homework heavy, but I learned how to stay on top of my work. Being successful starts in the classroom but staying organized and focused goes far especially when seasons get really busy. I’ve learned to utilize my study hall time and other free time to meet with teachers and stay in routine and not lose focus on what’s important. 

What is your favorite part about this sport?

My favorite part about softball is all the relationships I’ve built between teammates and coaches. When the team is one big family, that’s when we become a hard team to beat and that feeling is unexplainable. Even on the bad days, we come together as one and persevere until we find that success. I love spending time with my teammates because they truly have contributed to building the person I am today. 

What about it has caused you to stick with it for this long?

All the coaches I’ve had throughout the years have definitely helped me stay committed, but also myself. I have always had the drive to want to get better and keep going even when it seems impossible. My commitment stems from the love I have for the game, but that wouldn’t be possible without all the teammates I’ve had, past and present. I’ve always just wanted to be successful and see growth in myself which has helped me to stay motivated and push through the difficult times. 

What would you say is your biggest asset on the field/mat?

My biggest asset on the field I would say is being a coachable individual and adjusting to new positions or situations when needed. When a change needs to be made, I can be flexible and comfortable playing in a position that needs to be filled or do whatever the team needs to be successful. Besides being coachable, another asset is my speed and ability to slap and put bunts down in certain situations. Being a lefty has given me many opportunities to contribute to the team’s success, especially on offense when I can bunt and slap like I said before. 

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?

My most memorable experience in high school sports so far has been my senior softball season. My team this year truly feels like a family and we’ve been super successful thus far. When we play as one, we are unstoppable and that is reflected by the success we’ve been having up until this point. I know our goal is to make a far playoff run, but take it day by day to get there. 

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?

The feeling of looking back throughout high school, seeing my growth as a person and athlete is definitely bittersweet. I’ve made some of the most lasting memories and friendships throughout my time at MHS. I’m so grateful for all the opportunities and experiences I’ve had, but know that my future will bring that too. I’ve had some of the most impactful teachers and coaches who I will never forget. I’m humbled to look back and see how much I’ve grown as a person and athlete but want to extend my gratitude to the people who helped me get to where I am today. 

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to give a shout out to?

First, I’d like to give a shout out to Coach Akin for encouraging me to go out for cross country my sophomore year and sticking with it. It never mattered how fast or slow I ran, his kind words and enthusiasm is what kept me going to reach those PR’s. I’d also like to give a shout out to all of the coaches I’ve had from softball. From the beginning, these coaches shaped my love for the game and gave me that confidence I needed to succeed and see growth as a player. Besides coaches, my teammates that I’ve ever shared the field with, will always have a place in my heart. They kept me going and gave me the support that everyone deserves as an athlete. I will always remember the memories and lessons I learned from them. The last shout out I would like to give is to my twin sister, Kamryn. I’m so lucky to have the opportunity to play sports and experience everything with Kamryn. Our competitive nature has brought us closer together, but also motivates me to work hard and make her proud. Without her, I would not be where I am today. 

Any hobbies outside of sports?

Outside of sports, I like to hunt, fish, go shopping and hang out with friends and family. 

Favorite song?

My favorite song is probably “Dawns” by Zach Bryan.

Future plans?

I plan to attend Winona State University to pursue a degree in nursing with hopes to become a pediatric nurse practitioner.