Natalia Scekeres
School: Latrobe
Class: Sophomore
Sport: Softball
Claim to fame: The talented shortstop and quarterback for the flag football team led her teams to some high-scoring wins.
She went 2 for 3 with a triple in a 16-1 win over Gateway and had three hits, including a double, triple and three RBIs in an 18-9 win over Ligonier Valley.
Scekeres also threw six touchdown passes in a 79-0 win over McKeesport. She is a captain for the flag team, which started 3-0.
She has thrown for more than 400 yards and 11 touchdowns and is completing 78% of her passes. She also has a pick-6 on defense.
What has it been like juggling two sports in the same season?
It’s been challenging at times, but the successful outcomes in games comes as a big reward.
Have you played two events, one from each sport, in the same day?
Yes, last week we had a softball game versus Southmoreland at 3:30 and then a football game versus Jeannette at 7:30.
What do you like most about the new flag football team and season?
I like that we are even stronger coming into this season with new faces and returning players. We only lost two seniors so we are a fairly experienced team.
What do you like most about playing quarterback?
I like running the offense, though it can be challenging at times, and having so many receiving threats to spread the ball out to.
The softball team and flag football team are scoring a lot of points. Why the explosiveness so far?
Our defense is very solid for both sports, so I think just having the offensive attack mindset fuels us to score lots of points.
Coach Mackenzie Livingston is a good flag player. What has she taught you about the game?
She’s taught me a lot of things from the rules to how to be patient and stay calm under pressure. She is always reassuring and very encouraging towards me.
Which team will go farther in the playoffs?
I think both teams are very capable of making deep playoff runs if we keep this start to the seasons up.
Where does the nickname, “Snicks” come from?
It came from my 8U (softball) travel coach not being able to say Scekeres, so everyone called me Snickers. Now even my family and all my travel teammates call me Snicks.
You are a 4.5-plus student as well. How do you manage academics and sports so well?
I try to get my work done right when my teachers assign it so I don’t fall behind.
What do you want to play in college?
I definitely want to play softball in college, although I’ve grown a new love for flag football.
What is your favorite NFL team?
The Steelers, except when they play the Chiefs.
Who is your favorite college softball team?
I don’t really have a favorite, I enjoy watching all teams. My favorite will be where I end up playing in college.
Who is your favorite pro athlete?
Patrick Mahomes or Kendra Falby.
Who is your idol?
My older sister, Carissa Scekeres.
What celebrity do you most want to meet?
Patrick Mahomes.
What is your dream NIL deal and amount?
I would be grateful to receive any amount of money or NIL deal.
Who is the best pitcher you have faced?
Either Brooklynn Hagerty, a Texas commit, or my teammate Sydney Gonglik, an LSU commit.
What is your favorite sports movie?
“The Blindside.”
Were your parents good athletes?
Yes, my mom played softball and volleyball, and my dad played baseball, football and hockey.
What are some of your hobbies?
I enjoy building Legos and playing with my dog, Finn.
In general, what makes you happy?
Being with my family and friends. Winning makes me happy.
Tyler Samide
School: Greensburg Central Catholic
Class: Senior
Sport: Baseball
Claim to Fame: Samide had a great start to his senior season. He tossed a four-hit shutout, struck out 12 and drove in a run to lead the Centurions to a 4-0 victory against Jefferson Morgan on Wednesday. The following day he cracked a three-run homer and added two doubles and four RBIs as the Centurions completed the sweep against the Rockets, 8-2.
What are the Centurions’ team goals?
We want to win it all. Despite losing a couple of players, I feel we are in a good spot. I have a lot of faith in this group because we also added a couple of new faces to the squad.
What are your individual goals?
I have been focusing on my hitting. I am focused on technique. Also, when I am pitching, I am focused on attacking the zone. I feel you can only control what you do.
What is special about the team?
We all get along, and everyone on the team works hard. They are a determined group, and they want to get better.
What teams are your biggest obstacle?
I would say Serra Catholic and Eden Christian.
What are your most memorable moments in high school?
The bus rides to and from games. It is a time to hang out with your teammates and make new friends.
Who did you play travel ball with last summer?
The Pittsburgh Outlaws. I improved a lot, and I worked on various parts of my game. I worked on my timing at the plate and how to attack batters on the mound.
What college do you plan to attend after high school?
I am going to Chatham, and I would like to either get into medical sales or be a physician assistant.
Do you have a favorite baseball player?
I like Bryce Harper of the Phillies. I like watching his approach.
Are the Phillies your favorite team?
Yes, but I do watch the Pirates when they are not playing the Phillies. It was hard to root for a team so inconsistent.
Do you try to emulate any player?
I like how Harper adjusts his hips and how Ben Joyce pitches.
Who are the teams to beat in your section?
All of them are tough. Carmichaels and Jeannette will be tough.
Where is your favorite vacation spot?
I like the beach. Myrtle Beach and Punta Canta are my favorites.
Is there a place where baseball has taken you that you would like to go back?
Virginia Beach and Aberdeen, Md.
Is there a place on your bucket list to visit?
I want to go to the Bahamas. I want to see the blue waters.
Where do you and your teammates go after practice or meet for a snack?
It used to be Dino’s for their wings. Now we go to Buffalo Wild Wings, and I get 10 hot flapper wings.
What is your favorite meal?
I am a taco guy.
What type of music do you like?
I like all music, mainly country. I like John Pardi.
What is special about GCC?
The people. We are all friends and a tight-knit group.
If you were to have lunch or dinner with someone famous, who would it be and what would to talk about?
Jesus.