When Alliyah Shrum puts on her Perry Maroons uniform, she knows that she is playing for more than just herself or her team. She is a representative of her school and community and wants to leave a great impression wherever she goes.

“I always want to have good sportsmanship,” she said. “And I want to shine a positive light on my community.”

Shrum is a freshman at Perry High School, where she is a member of the basketball, softball, and track teams. Along with her athletics, she is also a member of the National Honor Society and the student council.

Throughout her life, she has had numerous people that have played a role of some kind in her life. But she has a few people that have made a bigger impact.

“My dad is the biggest influence on my life,” she said. “He is always pushing me to be better. Also, I look up to current OU softball player Grace Lyons and former OU softball player Lauren Chamberlain.”

Another person that has played a big part in her athletic career is her coach. Alliyah says that she has always been in her corner and there for her.

“My favorite teacher or coach would have to be coach Mathews,” she stated. “She took me in at my most vulnerable and never gave up on me.”

There has been a lot that Shrum has invested into becoming her best. She says that knowing that it will all pay off, in the end, is what keeps her working hard.

“Growth, hard work, and being coachable are all important keys to being a successful athlete,” she said. “I just stay focused on seeing myself go through all the progress to be a success. So far it has been great to know where I was during my freshman year and see where I am now.”

In her downtime, Shrum likes to check her social media where she has one person that she enjoys following the most.

“I like to follow @nataleebfitness,” she said. “She is super funny while promoting a positive mindset and energy.”