Taylyne Simpson is in her senior year at Perry High School. While most athletes are eager to get another season underway, Simpson is especially ready after suffering a couple of injuries a year ago.
“My season got cut short last year when I got a couple bad injuries,” she said. “I tore my meniscus in my right knee at a big tournament in Arkansas in the first semester. I got told I needed surgery but I wanted to finish the season so I tried pushing through the pain. The next semester I was wrestling in the finals against the girl who ended up winning state. During this match I ended up tearing my left ACL, MCL, and my Meniscus. I got surgery in February, I am eager to get back for my senior year.”
Simpson is a member of the Maroons’ wrestling, soccer, and track teams. She is heavily involved in a number of groups outside of sports.
“I am a member of the First Baptist Church of Perry,” she said. “I’m in Student Council, Leadership, the National Honor Society, the National Technical Honor Society, and I am a volunteer for community service.”
Throughout her career, there have been a lot of memorable moments that Simpson has enjoyed. But she says that the preparation for success is what makes the success so sweet.
“I feel like people underestimate how important the workouts, practices, and training is when it comes to being successful,” she said. “Yes we all want to say the moments we have won, succeeded, or even transcended past our goal is the highlight of our career. However, for me I would have to say that the behind the scenes where you get to see all the grit and strength, mentally and physically, that people don’t always see is my highlight.”
Helping her become the person that she is has been a number of people in Taylyne’s life. There are a few that have had a big impact.
“A few role models that I have looked up to my whole life are God and my parents,” she said. “Anytime I have ever needed advice I can either pray about it or go to my parents and I am greatly appreciative for having the opportunity to do that.”
