Caroline Shumeyko is a Senior at Kennesaw State University. She is a softball star, a legend at NGHS, and a local hero to many of our younger kids in the community. We heard all about Caroline while featuring her sister, Ryann, this month and knew we had to share her story, too. Maybe we should have titled this edition "The Shumeyko Sisters"! We are so impressed with these young women and are excited to share more about Caroline with you here.

Q: Hi Caroline! Thank you for taking the time to introduce yourself to our community. Please share a little bit about your “life in Edinburgh” over the years.

Caroline: I have lived in Edinburgh my entire life. My favorite thing about this neighborhood is the community. Growing up, I was never alone because there was always something to do. I remember riding bikes throughout the neighborhood, playing manhunt on the weekends, joining wiffle ball games, meeting friends at the pool, and studying at Jack’s Grill. I always felt safe and trusted every adult within the gates. Edinburgh truly shaped my childhood.

Q: Tell us about your life as an athlete. What sports did you play, and how has that shaped your college experience?

Caroline: I grew up swimming and playing softball. I swam for the Edinburgh Marlins from age five until I was getting ready to leave for college. My siblings and I even coached for the team at one point, making for some of my life's best summers! 

Softball has been a part of my life since I was about five years old. Now, at 22, I’m in my final season playing for Kennesaw State University. It’s bittersweet to approach the end of this chapter, but I’m grateful for the lessons the sport has taught me. Being a student-athlete is challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. I’ve gained skills like time management, building relationships, and learning to trust others. My biggest lesson is to appreciate everything—not just the good moments but the tough ones, too! The small moments, even the tough ones, are what have shaped who I am today.

Q: What inspired you to pursue this sport (or sports)? Do you have any sports idols or role models?

Caroline: My parents have been my biggest supporters throughout my life. My dad coached me when I was younger and taught me to love and appreciate sports. Watching my brother and sister play baseball and softball also inspired me. As the youngest sibling, I always wanted to follow in their footsteps.

Q: Tell us about your favorite moment, memory, or milestone thus far in your athletic journey.

Caroline: One of my favorite moments as a college softball player happens before every home game. We bring a youth athlete onto the field with us for the national anthem. As a child, I remember being that kid, dreaming of becoming a college athlete one day. Now, being on the other side, inspiring these young players and showing them their dreams are achievable is amazing.

Q: How do you balance schoolwork and sports commitments?

Caroline: This year has been especially busy for me as a student teacher. My days start with 6:00 a.m. weights or conditioning, followed by teaching at the high school from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., then softball practice and sometimes evening classes. Despite my packed schedule, I’ve learned to find time for myself to recharge. Whether it’s reading, walking, or watching my favorite show, these moments help me stay grounded. Over the years, I’ve developed strong time management skills, which have been crucial to handling everything on my plate.

Q: What are your future goals and aspirations in sports and beyond?

Caroline: I’ll graduate in May with a degree in English Education and start my master’s program soon after. My softball career will end this spring, but I plan to continue coaching as a high school teacher. I’ve had both amazing and challenging experiences with coaches, and I hope to share my knowledge and passion for the game with the next generation of athletes.

Q: What advice would you give other aspiring young athletes in the neighborhood?

Caroline: Sports can be stressful and exhausting, but always take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come. Remember that you once dreamed of being where you are now, so cherish every moment. Play for the younger version of yourself who would be proud of the person you’ve become. Stay grateful, and keep pushing forward!