Self-taught pitcher of the Coahoma County High School girls’ softball team, freshman Nyriah Artis is definitely an athlete we’ll be hearing about in the coming years. She’s described as a leader both on and off the field, and comes from a family of academic and athletic background. Nyriah has also played basketball and run track and is considering competing in all three sports throughout her high school career. She aspires to play on the collegiate level and is determined to commit herself academically so that she can have options when approaching her senior year.
Artis’ coach, Julia True stated, “She’s one of the most dedicated players I’ve ever coached. She taught herself to pitch by watching YouTube videos.” Nyriah asked to take equipment home with her and for her coach to give her pointers while she learned to pitch. This past season, she was the only pitcher and carried quite the load of the team as she encouraged them throughout each game to give each play their best effort and to remain tough mentally.
“On game days, I look at the whole field, especially when my pitching’s off, and I think ‘If I don’t do what I need to do, they won’t get the opportunity either’ and that motivates me. I want everyone to get the opportunity to play,” says Artis. Artis, without hesitation, named softball her absolute favorite as she described it as a team, yet individualistic sport.
Artis is expected to be an outstanding athlete, and her family is committed to helping develop her skills throughout her career.
