By Derrick Smith

Role models can play a big role in the lives of high school athletes. They serve as an example to the athlete of how to carry themselves on and off the field or court. Brynlie Delk says that she has a few people in her life that she looks up to and they have all had an influence on her.

“My mom and dad have made a huge impact on me,” she said. “They have always pushed me to be my best self while staying true to me and showed me how to work hard in life while showing me the outcome of working hard. Also my Gigi because she has always been there for me through thick and thin. Delaney and Cole Fancher because they both have always pushed me to be a better person and a better softball player and leader. Mike Faught, Bobby Bundy, and Phil Webb have all also made a very big impact on my life by always pushing me to do my best and always believing in me and my dreams.”

Delk is a junior at Sperry High School, where she is a three-sport athlete, competing in softball, basketball, and track. She says that in the classroom, she has another person that has played a role in her life.

“Ms. Maddi Webb has definitely had the biggest impact on me as my teacher and coach,” Brynlie said. “She has taught me to work hard in school and actually enjoy it a little bit. When she first started teaching at Sperry, her and I immediately clicked. She always set aside extra time to help me with my math and any other subject I was struggling with and has also pushed me to be a better person.”

On the field and court, Delk knows it takes a lot to be the best that she can be and that is what has helped her get to where she is.“It has taken me a lot of hard work, time and dedication,” she said. “As coach Fancher would say, ‘It all comes down to who wants it more and we want it more’. I have had some great moments throughout my career, but the highlight moment of my career was when I led the nation in stolen bases during my freshman year on MaxPreps.”