By Cooper Chadwick
Coming off of an injury, Maize South senior pitcher Kanyon Akers is excited to play his final season with the guys he’s grown up with.
“After injuring my shoulder last spring during the Andover Central game, I wasn’t able to return to the field defensively until regionals and could only contribute as a DH. In the fall, what we thought was part of the recovery process turned out to be a torn labrum that required surgery. It was unexpected and meant being out much longer than I had planned. Because of that, just being able to compete alongside my teammates this season means everything,” Akers said.
Due to his injury, Akers was not able to spend his offseason exactly how he wanted to, but he still made sure everything he did will lead him to success this season.
“Most of my offseason was focused on rehabilitation and rebuilding strength in my shoulder after surgery. Physical therapy became part of my daily routine. I worked on shoulder stability, mobility, and gradually progressing through a structured throwing program. As I was cleared for more activity, I focused on strength training and conditioning while continuing to develop as a hitter,” Akers said.
Akers is also a captain this year for the Mavericks and he takes that position and responsibility very seriously.
“I believe how we practice determines how we play. I make sure we practice with intensity and focus — like we’re preparing to beat the opponent we’re facing that week. I want our team to compete at a high level in every drill, every rep, and every inning,” Akers said.
