VYPE: Who has been your favorite coach throughout your career and how did they impact you as a player?
Shylie Mason: Two coaches that have impacted my life immensely are my dad and Sheila O’Dell. Sheila is not only my pitching coach, but also someone who has been there to encourage me on and off the field. My dad has been there every step of the way. He is one of my biggest fans in life. I couldn’t thank either of them enough.
VYPE: Did you have any teammates that you admire or that supported you?
SM: Stevie Stinchcomb was a senior when I was a freshman. The impact she made has stuck with me. The love she has for the game, and how she carried herself on the field encourages me to be a better player.
VYPE: Who was your favorite teacher and how were they influential in your life?
SM: My favorite teacher is Amy Snell from Krebs Public School. She played an important role to me in kindergarten. She always made me feel like her own kid.
VYPE: What preparation have you taken this off-season to better equip yourself for the upcoming season?
SM: Coming off a six-month leg injury, offseason has been a challenge. I didn’t let that stop me. I went to physical therapy for two months, and after I got released, I began to lift as part with our summer pride program. On the weekends, I put in extra work hitting and have pitching lessons.
VYPE: What has your sport taught you that you use in your daily life?
SM: My sport has taught me to never give up, even when you’re failing. Even if I am having a bad day, I have to find the good in it.
VYPE: What has been your favorite memory in your sport?
SM: I cannot just choose one, but I would have to say the bus rides with my teammates.
VYPE: What do you hope to accomplish this season?
SM: We are a very young team, but I want us to bond together as teammates. Which will help us build a program of winning.
VYPE: What matchup are you most looking forward to this season?
SM: I’m looking forward to Durant. This is always a good match up and I know we have what it takes to beat this team.
VYPE: What are you plans after high school?
SM: My plan after high school is to attend college and become a pediatric doctor.
