Kira Reineman’s approach to her freshman season at Poteau High School can be summed up in one mindset: “My main goals are to be consistent at the plate and be someone my teammates can rely on in big moments.” From the start, Reineman has focused on both performance and presence, adding, “I also want to keep improving my leadership role on the team.”
That mentality has fit well with the overall environment surrounding the Lady Pirates. “Team morale has been really positive,” Reineman said. “Everyone supports each other, stays motivated, and works hard together, which makes practices and games more fun and competitive.”
As the season has progressed, growth has been noticeable. “The biggest improvement has been our communication and consistency,” she said. “We’re playing more together as a team and staying focused through tough moments.” That progress aligns with the standards the team has set. “Our goals are to compete every game, staying locked in mentally, and holding each other accountable,” Reineman said.
Chemistry continues to stand out as a defining trait. “Our biggest strength is how close we are as a team,” she said. “We play for each other, and that makes a big difference on and off the field.” Within that dynamic, Reineman embraces her role. “I believe I consistently demonstrate a positive attitude, high energy levels, strong work ethic, and reliability that my teammates can depend on,” she said.
At the plate, preparation and awareness guide her approach. “I look at how the infield is positioned, outfield depth, and where the gaps are so I can adjust my approach and make smart contact,” Reineman said. Her preparation extends well beyond game time. “I prepare myself by putting in the extra work on my own by hitting the gym, going to the cages, going to private lessons, eating food that will keep me energized and fueled and drink plenty of fluids before and during those big moments,” she said.
Once the game begins, her focus is clear. “Play hard, stay confident, don’t get in my head, if I make a mistake move on to the next play, and control what I can control,” Reineman said. Looking ahead, she knows how she hopes to be remembered. “I want to be remembered as someone who worked hard, was a great teammate, and represented Poteau softball with pride and effort every day.”
Reineman said outsiders may overlook one key detail. “People may not realize how much work we put in behind the scenes and how strong our bond is.” Her favorite memory so far is clear. “My favorite moment is when we beat a big-time team with one of our pitchers that had never pitched varsity game before. We got behind her as a team and went to work.”
Reineman competes in softball and basketball. She is also involved in FCA. “My plans after high school are to play college softball and become a nurse,” she said.
