POTEAU’S MORIAH PAINTER…SHINING LIGHT
By Michael Bray
Core values are the building stones for who a person eventually will become in the future. Poteau’s Moriah Painter has hers.
“I think what makes me is my faith, values and heart for others,” the freshman Lady Pirate said.
“I think what drives me to play softball knowing i get to go out there everyday and get to be with my teammates and have fun while also getting the job done.”
Painter is in an interesting place in time as Poteau is set to add back slowpitch to its arsenal of athletics, a sport it has not competed in since 2021. That year the Lady Pirates finished 6-14 with an eight game skid to close the year.
“We think it’s gonna be great for our softball program altogether to have back slowpitch,” said Poteau coach Ryan Dill. “Having another season in the spring to bring us all back together in a time that we haven’t had will be huge for our team atmosphere.”
Painter brings plenty of experience as she has played every game this past fall as a middle infielder in fastpitch.
“Moriah brings a ton of tools as she has great hands, good arm, and has a very nice compact swing producing a lot of line drives for this team,” Dill said. “She’s a hard worker and wants to get better at everything so we just want her to stay hungry and continue to grow as she has been doing already.”
Outside of sports Moriah is heavily involved in serving at church and participating in various activities. Although sports have shaped her she hopes to be known for her faith in God. “I strive to live in a way that reflects God’s goodness and love so that others can see that through my actions and character.”
She credits her parents’ sacrifice and dedication throughout her life is why they are her role model.
Her triumphs are not without their trials, however.
“The biggest challenge I have faced over this past year would have to be being worried about my performance,” she added, “not performing well enough or trying to perform for people instead of playing not only for me but the Lord.”
Moriah shared a couple of her personal things other than sports. “My favorite food is a good medium rare steak and a side of mashed potatoes,” she said. “My favorite movie is probably Pearl Harbor and my favorite activity is definitely hanging out with my friends.”
Whatever is in her future she is ready to embrace it.
“ I think the biggest thing that inspires me in life is definitely my faith. It reminds me that softball is a platform to share the love of Jesus as well as personally grow, to serve others and honor God through my effort, attitude and character.” Painter said.
Her coach agrees fully.
“Moriah is a great Christian leader on and off the field and is a shining light for young ladies to follow” said Dill. “I’m proud that she is a Lady Pirate and that I get a chance to be a part and coach her.”
