VYPE: Which professional athlete do you look up to and why?
Gracie: Nicole Mendes, because of her love for not only softball but the Lord, makes me strive to be better in sports and my walk with God.
VYPE: What has sports taught you that you use in your daily life?
Gracie: Sports have taught me how to be a leader as well as be part of a team. It has taught me to bring people up and not let the little things get to me.
VYPE: What is your favorite part about being on a team?
Gracie: My favorite part about being on a team is that no matter what happens your teammates will always have your back. I love cheering them on and having people in my corner. Being a part of a team is being in something that is bigger than just yourself. We really all come together and I love it.
VYPE: Why are you passionate about sports?
Gracie: I’m passionate about my sport because it is something I truly love. When I cheer, I get to pick people up when everyone else might bring them down. It makes me happy knowing that they know no matter what I believe in them. In softball and basketball watching everyone work as a team is just amazing to me.
VYPE: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?
Gracie: That would be my friends, Camdyn and Jaclyn. Sports brought me Camdyn and I am truly grateful. Camdyn is who I aspire to be like. She helps with anything I need and has a pure heart. Jaclyn has left an impression on me by the way she acts during basketball. Not only is she always cheering on and picking people up, but she will be there for you if you need it. No matter who you are, she is in your corner.
VYPE: Who inspires you and why?
Gracie: The people that inspire me are God and the people around me. I try to look to God in every situation. The people around me, especially my teammates, are so important to me. I love the energy they give and aspire to love and cheer for others as they do.
VYPE: What is your all-time favorite meal?
Gracie: My favorite meal would have to be a big juicy cheeseburger, fries with ranch, and a huge glass of sweet tea. Oh, and strawberry shortcake for dessert, obviously.
VYPE: Are you involved in any other activities?
Gracie: I am president of Family Career and Community Leaders of America as well as student council president and BETA president, and I am also in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. I am on the academic team, I play the snare drum in the band and I’ve been a Girl Scout for the past 14 years.
VYPE: Here is your chance to give a shoutout or say thank you to anyone you wish.
Gracie: I want to say thank you to my mom for, first of all ,putting up with me but for always being my biggest fan; to my granny for coming to every game no matter how far and my papa. When he’s not working, he’s there. They always support me and I’m so thankful; to my coaches for never giving up on me and always giving me a chance; to my teammates for not only being some of the best people I’ve met, but for always cheering me on. You all have taught me how to be a leader and what being a part of a team really means. You each gave me lifelong memories.
