By Derrick Smith

Success is what everyone hopes to achieve in life. Whether you are a student, a business person, an athlete, or something else, you always want to be the best you can be. Mackenzie Swick says that it has taken a lot of work for her to be the athlete she is today.
“For me to be a successful pitcher has taken a lot of hard work and love for the sport,” she said. “I have to do a lot of extra practice on my own to keep getting better and grow to where I am today.”

Swick is a senior at Stillwater High School. She plays pitcher and third base for the Lady Pioneers’ softball team. She has been playing softball for twelve years and says that along with all the work, she has had someone there to help her become her best.
“The biggest influence on my career has been coach Karie Linsenmeyer,” she said. “She has been coaching me since I was ten years old. She always has advice and helps me to become better and has made me the softball player I am today.”

Playing softball for Stillwater High School is not something new to Swick’s family. 

“I am a second-generation softball player at Stillwater,” she said. “My mom also played here when she was in high school. It is really cool to be able to follow in her footsteps.”

Throughout her career, Mackenzie has made a lot of great memories with her teammates. While she has many to choose from she says that her favorite one is an easy choice.

“I think my highlight so far has been going to State during my freshman and junior years,” she said. “We are working really hard and hoping to get back this season.”

Swick is also the historian in the Unified Peers Club. They also plan different activities for them to do with the special needs kids on campus and they also help out with the Special Olympics.