Throughout an athlete’s career, there are many people that can be influential and help them grow into who they want to be. 

Paityn Zahorsky is a dual sport athlete for Pond Creek-Hunter High School and says that there have been a few people who have played a big role in her life.

“My family, teammates, and coaches have been a big part of helping me become the athlete and person I am today,” Zahorsky said. “My coach, David Kerr has taught me everything there is to know about softball, along with integrity, humility, and self-discipline. In the classroom, Mrs. Taddum Riddle is my favorite teacher because she influenced me to be kind and collected. She works hard to teach her students to the best of her ability.”

Paityn is a senior and a member of the Panthers’ softball and basketball teams. While her varsity career has had its ups and downs, Zahorsky is happy to end her high school career on a positive note.

“I had very few chances to prove myself throughout my high school career because of injuries,” she stated. “So it meant a lot to have a successful year.”

There has been a lot of work that Paityn has done so that she can be at her best when she steps on the field or court. This has also allowed her the opportunity to make some great memories along the way.

“It has taken a lot of after-hours work,” she said. “Also, a lot of motivation from my coach as well as self-discipline. I think my favorite moment during my career was winning districts during my freshman year of fast-pitch softball. Another memory that stands out for me was when we beat Ringwood with a walk-off in the district tournament. That was because we lost to them by a walk-off during the regular season.”

David Kerr is the slowpitch softball coach at Pond Creek-Hunter. He says that Zahorsky is a solid player on both sides of the ball.

“Paityn has been our starting pitcher since she was a freshman,” he said. “She is very consistent on the mound and offensively is our most productive hitter.”