2026 Softball interview with Karenna Shipley from Olentangy Berlin

 

Karenna Shipley

Olentangy Berlin High School

Pitcher/1st Base

2028

Height: 5'9

Jersey Number: 21

Awards won or earned:

School Record Holder Single Season ERA

School Record Holder: Single Season Strikeouts

Earned the win in Coach’s 100th career victory.

HUDL LINK: N/A

Other sports played: basketball, soccer

Please post something from last season that sticks out to you. It can be from a game, practice, or something funny on the bus ride to or from the game. Any moment that sticks out to you.

One moment that sticks out from last season was playing Mafia with my teammates during spring break down in Gulf Shores. It was so much fun just hanging out and laughing together off the field.

Who or what got you started playing softball?

My mom coached me in little league, and that’s really what got me into softball. From day one, I loved being on the field and learning the game.

What has been your biggest moment on the diamond?

My biggest moment was earning the win in my coach’s 100th career victory. It was special to be part of a milestone like that and share it with my teammates and coach.

Who has been the toughest batter that you have faced, along with the team she was on?

I can’t name a single batter, but the toughest hitters are the ones who adjust to your pitches quickly. Facing them makes me focus on hitting my spots and staying one step ahead.

What are your personal goals for the season?

My personal goal is to keep improving as a pitcher by lowering my ERA, striking out more hitters, and commanding all my pitches. But I also want to help our team win and be someone my teammates can rely on in big moments.

What goals are you setting for your team?

My goal for the team is that everyone plays with confidence and supports each other. If we communicate, trust each other on the field, and give 100% every game, I think the wins will take care of themselves.

What do you feel is your best pitch?

My curveball, especially my off-speed version, is my go-to. I can control it well and use it to set up other pitches, which helps me stay ahead in counts and finish innings strong.

What are you doing during the off-season to improve your game?

I try to outwork the season in the off-season. That means lifting, pitching lessons, speed and agility work, and doing extra reps whenever I can. I don’t want to show up in March trying to get ready; I want to already be ready.

With Ohio having such cold weather in March, should the season start later?

I’m definitely not a fan of the cold weather, but I wouldn’t start the season later. I love playing, and dealing with the cold helps me adjust to different conditions if I ever play somewhere colder in the future.

Where should the state finals be held?

I think Firestone Stadium is the perfect place for state. It has so much history, and growing up in Ohio, you know that’s where you want to end your season. It makes it feel bigger than just another game.

What is your game day routine?

I start with jogging and dynamic drills to get my blood flowing, then stretch and work my arm with bands and a lacrosse ball. After that, I throw softly, use my spinner to check my mechanics, and warm up each pitch individually before mixing them and focusing on spots before the game.

Once the game has started, does it matter if you are at home or on the road?

Once I step in the circle, it doesn’t matter where we are. My job is the same: attack hitters and control what I can control. The environment doesn’t change my focus.

What is something you would like to do in a game but might not ever have the chance to?

I’d love to hit a grand slam or make a big play that helps my team win a huge championship game. Just being able to come through in that kind of moment would be really special.

What is your favorite class or subject?

My favorite class is any fine art class. I like to show my creativity and what I'm able to make with my hands and just let ideas flow as I make things.

Who is your favorite athlete?

My favorite athlete is Jordy Bahl; she’s an absolute stud and one of the best pitchers out there.

What is a style or fad that your generation has that you just don't get or understand?

I don’t really get the trend of wearing Nike socks over leggings. I feel like other socks look fine, but somehow Nike socks just don’t work for me.

 

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