I recently conducted a interview with Oklahoma Baseball player Steele Walker. Last season Walker hit .333 and had 8 homeruns.
Question 1:
Q: Growing up who did you admire the most? Why?
A: “I admired my two older brothers man. They were great athletes who put Christ first in their lives. As I got older I came into myself, but as a young one it was my two older brothers who I looked up to.”
Question 2:
Q: Explain what it’s like to be apart of the University Of Oklahoma?
A: “It is a blessing for me to be at a first class program and be around amazing athletes each day. The tradition and winning mindset at this university has only made me better. I’m very thankful to be here.”
Question 3:
Q: Explain the transition from high school to college baseball
A: “You really can’t prepare yourself enough for the transition. You almost have to get thrown into the fire and find a way to survive! My biggest adjustment was having to go from getting by with pure athleticism, to becoming a complete, polished, and refined player. The higher you go up the stiffer the competition, so you have to find a way to continue to progress yourself. It takes motivation and you have to be intentional about what you’re doing.”
Question 4:
Q: What was the best advice you have been given? And by who?
A: “The best advice I have been given is from the Bible. Matthew 6:33 says “but seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you” I give God my first love, and He leads me day by day. This goes for school, friendships, baseball, family, etc. God always gets the first love. It’s a daily thing because our hearts always want to grab onto things. But the Lord is very sweet and cares for us. He is patient and compassionate. I’m thankful for His grace on me.”
Question 5:
Q: What made you chose the University Of Oklahoma?
A: “Growing up I was a Texas fan, but I didn’t hear much from them during the recruiting process. It was somewhat narrowed down to Arkansas, Texas A&M, and OU. However, once I came on a visit, I saw the lovely campus and the value they placed on me as a player even at a young age. I knew I had a chance to come in and play quickly, and that meant a lot to me. I liked the emphasis they put on academics and creating a winning atmosphere.”
Question 6:
Q: What is your favorite baseball memory?
A: “Playing for Team USA this summer on the Fourth of July, against Cuba. We won the game and the whole stadium was sold out. It was nice to be apart of that.”
Question 7:
Q: What is your normal routine before a baseball game?
A: “I keep it super chill man. Listen to some nice music, and keep calm. I’m not a hype guy. I like taking it easy, being relaxed. Hanging with my teammates!”
Question 8:
Q: Since being at Oklahoma, what do you think you have most improved at?
A: “My preparation and maturity as a player. Learning how to handle failure the right way.”
Question 9:
Q: In your opinion what is the best part about playing college baseball?
A: “First off it gives you the chance to compete against elite competition all over the country. But it also gives you friends that last a lifetime.”
Question 10:
Q: How do you want your teammates to remember you?
A: “I want them to remember my love for God, my love for my team and winning, and also the guy that anyone can come to if they need to talk or want advice or anything.”
Just wanted to thank Steele Walker for taking the time to do this interview, and hope the Sooners have great success this season. I also want to say thanks to Brock Henderson, for setting up the interview.