Southern Lyon County player keeps it real and positive

Character seems to be in short supply these days. And sports, being a microcosm of society, also reflect that.

But the silver lining to the spiraling character of sports teams is the coachable high school student-athlete who regularly demonstrates maturity, tenacity and positivity.

Southern Lyon County softball pitcher Adriana Weeden is a thread in the silver lining.

"She's a hard worker, a great attitude," said SLC assistant coach Derek Temeyer. "You can't ask for more. She's mentally strong. It's what you need for pitchers. She gets in a little jam, and she seems to find her way out of it most of the time. So, definitely a strong, high-character kid."

How does Weeden overcome challenges and adversity? Well, it's that short-term memory thing.

"I have always had the mentality, ‘So what? Next pitch?' Just keep moving on," Weeden expressed. "I've lived by that motto for years. I think that keeps me going, and to stay focused on the next pitch and not worry about what's in the past because you can't help that."

She is the type of teammate that exudes reliability; at least, that's her goal. If Weeden is indeed bringing her attributes to the field and dugout, then she must be succeeding in her quest to be a trustworthy teammate.

"I strive to be the teammate who's supportive, positive and dependable," Weeden said. "I'm always trying to encourage them, keep the team energy up. I always want to lead by example, by working hard, staying focused, giving my best effort…Overall, I just want to help create a strong, connected team, where everyone feels valued and motivated to succeed…and be the teammate they can trust."

Weeden's approach and attitude have proven to be a solid blueprint for circle efficacy. Over 31 innings, she has struck out 45 batters and walked just eight.

Her season record is 5-0 with a 1.355 ERA and a formidable .935 WHIP. Weeden keeps at it during the off-season.

"I have a pitching lane in my shop, so I try to go out there a couple times a week, work on pitching and batting, just improving my skills," she said. "I also help my sister, and I'm gaining knowledge through that too."

The Olpe sophomore was drawn to the sport at an early age. It has been a central part of her life, for most of her life, beginning in first grade.

"I've always loved the game, and I love being part of a team," she said. "I started when I was really young, and I've just stuck with it. I look forward to practicing, playing games, all of that. And I love the friendships and memories that I make through the sport. It just makes it really special for me."

In Kansas, softball classifications don't seem to matter much. Quality teams and parity abound from 2-1A through 6A. Weeden's stats and mentality could serve her well in any classification. And if her climb continues, colleges should come knocking.

"That's something I'm interested in," Weeden commented. "I know it takes a lot of work. So I'm going to plan to keep pushing myself in the off-season. Keep improving my skills, getting stronger, and being someone my team can count on. Having a strong team behind me also helps me stay motivated to keep working towards trying to play at the next level."

But first things first. There is a 2026 season to finish with team goals to accomplish.

"One of our main goals for this year is that we want to make it to state," she said. "And we've always had that goal to make it to state. We work really hard together, and accomplishing that as a team will make it even more rewarding…I wouldn't want to do it with anybody else."

After the final frame, it's more than just a state tournament berth and recorded strikeouts. It's what Weeden truly relishes about softball.

"I love all the memories and friends I make through the sport. I first started playing the sport in Nebraska, and I still have friends who I keep in contact with that were on my softball team. I've just made a lot of good friendships and memories, and learned life lessons, through softball."

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This story was originally published April 28, 2026 at 9:41 AM.