Some athletes grow into their sport slowly, but for Silo senior Zane Sander, baseball has been woven into his life for as long as he can remember. “I have played baseball for as long as I can remember, starting with t-ball and moving all the way up to kid pitch,” he says. What kept him in the game wasn’t just competition—it was the way the sport shaped him. “All of the life lessons that get taught from baseball alone are what helped me stick with it, along with the strong love I gained for the sport.”
Growing up admiring the powerhouse reputation of Silo baseball, Zane always understood the pride that came with wearing that jersey. “Silo has had a reputation for as long as I can remember of being the best high school team there is for baseball in Oklahoma and being able to be a part of that and gain the friendships that last your whole life make it pretty special.”
There’s one person who has influenced his journey more than anyone: “My dad, he’s sacrificed so much time, money, and effort to get me where I am today.”
Zane plays with an energy that sets the tone at the top of the lineup. He describes himself as “a spark plug guy who gets his lineup rolling at the leadoff spot by working long at bats and finding a way on base no matter what it takes.” Being part of elite baseball means something to him. “It means a lot to be a part of some strong baseball and knowing that I have been a part of teams that are hard to beat.”
This year’s group, he says, is special. “This year’s team chemistry is amazing. We have a ton of guys who know what it’s like to win in big games and do their jobs when the pressure is on.” Their coaches reinforce a mindset built on commitment. “The coaching staff has taught all of us players that success takes sacrifice. Also to see what you would do for your team to win a game.”
His favorite part of the program? “There is always room for improvement in whatever you do.”
One moment stands above the rest. “The moment that sticks out the most to me was being able to lead a very talented group to the State Championship my junior year and win against our coaches’ old school.”
He’s constantly sharpening his skills, especially his bat. “The part of my game that I’ve worked on the most to improve is by far my hitting, because no matter how I’m doing at the plate I always want to do better.”
When high-pressure games arrive, he leans on his faith. “I prepare for big games and moments simply by just praying and asking my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to take control of the situation and no matter what happens he is the same amazing God all the time.”
Versatility is another strength: “I feel comfortable in whatever position a coach puts me in. I’ve played every position on the baseball field at least once and I feel like I can play all of them to somewhat of a good degree.”
And with standout numbers—.477 AVG, .577 OBP, 1.204 OPS, .628 SLG, .923 FPTC, and a .467 ERA—Zane Austin Sander, a 5’9” senior involved in baseball, basketball, Beta, Honor Society, and the Superintendent’s Honor Roll, is set for the next step: playing baseball at Cowley County Community College.
