Success can be measured differently by everyone, depending on what they are doing. In the business world, it could be landing the big sale, while a parent sees success in raising their children into good people. But for Kinley Brand, who is a senior at Heavener High School, her definition of success is playing at the next level.
“The highlight of my career was when I made my commitment to play DII softball at Southern Nazarene University in Bethany,” she said. “It was great to see all the hard work and effort pay off.”
Along with softball, Brand plays basketball for the Wolves. She also plays travel softball for Vision Elite 18u. Aways from sports, she is a member of the National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, she serves as an officer in the Business Professionals of America, and she attends Kiamichi Tech.
Throughout her life, Kinley has a few people that have really made a big impact her as an athlete, student, and a person.
“The biggest role models in my life are my parents,” she stated. “My mom is the hardest worker I know and never gives up on anything. My dad has spent countless hours catching and practicing with me. They both are amazing people and I strive to be like them everyday. The teacher that had the biggest impact on my life was my tenth-grade Biology teacher Mrs. Huddleston. She was the person who helped me realize that I wanted to work in the medical field.”
Rodale Sanders is the head coach of the Heavener softball team and says that Brand is a vital member of the team and he expects another solid season this year.
“For every team; if you can’t throw a strike, you can’t win games,” Sanders said. “As our number one pitcher, the value in most valuable player makes her our MVP for this upcoming year. Earning 18 of our 21 wins last year in the circle, while also batting above .470 on the year, we are looking replicate that this year and maybe even improve on those numbers.”