By Derrick Smith

Athletes do not just show up on game day ready to play. There is a lot of preparation that has to be done in order to be prepared to play. Taylor Skipper says that it has taken a lot for her to become the athlete she is and she did not do it alone.

“I have done a lot and had a lot of help to get where I am,” she said. “Hard work, dedication, and the support of family, friends, coaches, and my teammates have to be the big things for my success in my sports now and as I was growing up.”

Skipper is a senior at Charles Page High School. She plays first base and catcher for the Lady Sandites softball team. Taylor is no stranger to the game of softball, she first played when she was four years old. 

Over her career, she has had a lot of people that have made a difference in her life. But for Skipper, there are a few people that made the biggest impact. 

“The biggest role models in my life have to be my mother and my nana,” she stated. “They have taught me to always be myself and do my best in everything I pursue in life. My favorite teacher would have to be Ms. Keho because she was always there for me whenever I needed help. Whether it was school work, making a decision, or just being there if I needed someone to talk to. She taught me English in eighth grade but also was one of my softball coaches in high school.”

Taylor says that she has made a lot of great memories during her career, but says it the everyday things that she remembers and loves the most. 

“The highlight of my career is easy,” she said. “I have the opportunity to step on the field with my best friends and be taught by the best coaches around.”

Along with her athletics, Skipper is also a member of the National Honor Society, maintaining a 4.5 GPA while playing softball and working.