For Latta junior Rylee Jones, success on the field starts long before the first pitch.
“I get up at 5:45 most mornings to get to the gym, making sure I stay in as good of shape as possible,” Jones said. “I try to drink a lot of water and stay hydrated and put healthy foods in my body. I also go to the batting cages frequently to make sure my swing is perfected.”
Jones, who plays mostly center field but rotates where needed, said her approach to the game goes beyond physical preparation. “My personal goals this season are to grow not only as a softball player, but as a person and a teammate,” she said.
According to her, the bond the players share has been key to their continued success. “From this team, I’d say the biggest improvement is our chemistry,” she said. “We’ve gone through a lot together, and through those times, we’ve grown closer as a team.”
On the field, Jones said the team’s offensive power has been one of its strongest assets. “My team’s biggest strength is our hitting lineup,” she said. “We’ve got some hitters this season with real raw power.”
As the Lady Panthers chase their postseason goals, Jones said there’s one objective at the top of the list. “Some team goals this season are to #1, not only get to the state tournament, but to win it all,” she said. “To help my team achieve that goal, I will work as hard as I personally can on my swing, defense, and mental game.”
Jones said she also prides herself on being smart at the plate. “What I look for when reading a defense is which way they’re shifted. Also, if they’re scooted up or way back,” she said. “It’s critical to pay attention to these things.”
Her mindset, she added, keeps her locked in through the toughest moments. “My mindset is to be a goldfish, and to learn from mistakes instead of dwelling on them.”
Jones, who also competes in basketball and is involved in NHS, FCA and FFA, already has her long-term goals set. “My plans after high school are to attend medical school somewhere and become a doctor or nurse,” she said. “I want to be known not only as a great softball player, but as a great teammate, leader, and friend. I want to be someone little girls can look up to.”
