Saturday December 30th, 2023
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Tyson Steele

 

Tyson Steele

 

USSSA Playing History

2014 Interview

Why do you like the game of softball?
Because I get the chance to go out of town and play against the best and meet some amazing people that's become a second family.

Who is the best softball player you have ever seen play?
The guy with the best hair in softball – Rick Steele, my dad.   He's about to turn 50 and still makes the most amazing diving plays and is one of the classiest people I know.   In conference, Purcell is a beast.   But Helmer is who I try to imitate.   Guy smashes and has incredible bat control.

Where do you call home?
Salt Lake City, Utah.

What do you do for a living?
Glass man.    Mirrors, showers etc.

Did you play sports in High School / College / Pro?
Played in high school and went to Taft college in California.

How did you get your start in softball and how did you get to the upper level?
I lived at the park as a kid which helped a bunch.   Started playing around 15 when needed.   Went to E worlds in Lancaster and went 0-2.   Then D worlds and took 7th went again the year after did alright.   Then got a break and played in toys for tots with velvet lion but didn't make it.   Hooked up with Adidas C team and Mark Meersman.    We had a great year, then Desert Falls B Team and got to experience real softball.   Thanks Mark.

What position do you play?
P/C/EH.   And some infield.

What batting grip do you use?
Like Helmer, the overlap – to get all the backspin I can get.

What is your favorite sports team?
New York Yankees.

What is your favorite sport other than softball?
Hunting gives me something to do when it snows.

Do you have any superstitions and if so, what are they?
Make a mound to push off in the box.   Helps me to get focused and settle in.

What is your most memorable softball moment?
A couple.   Battling a great AJ's team in 2010 B worlds (hate losing!) and taking 7th in D worlds with papa Steele.

Is slow-pitch softball a sport or a game?
It can be Considered both.   The best part is there's a level for everyone.   You can dodge bullets from Wallace or you can play on a church team.

What is the best improvement upper level softball could make?
Like everyone has said – Shaving bats.   It gets old being accused of shaving your stick cause your 5'8 and hit the ball decent.

What is your favorite non-World tournament?
The Dudley.   I Got the chance to play there last year.   We opened up against the local team Mr. D's and the crowd was buzzing.

What is the funniest thing you have ever seen on a softball field?
Anaconda Montana tourney.   During the home run derby the place gets crazy.   A guy streaker runs on the field butt naked and slides into second safely.    Ouch!


Rick Steele

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