Metro Christian Academy’s varsity baseball program leans on many leaders, but few wear as many hats as junior pitcher and center fielder Finn Kouplen. On the mound and in the outfield, he has become a steady presence for the Patriots while embracing the pressure that comes with big moments for a small-school program.
“What I love most is our overall mindset,” Kouplen said. “Everyone stays focused on doing their job for the good of the team rather than being self-centered. We work hard, but we always make sure to keep the game fun.”
Kouplen’s versatility stretches across the diamond and into the mental side of the game. He embraces the toughest part of pitching: responding when things do not go his way. “I’m a pitcher and center fielder,” he said. “The biggest challenge for me is on the mound, specifically the mental toughness required to lock back in after a setback like a walk or a hit.”
Faith is central to how Kouplen approaches competition and leadership at Metro Christian. “I am inspired by professional athletes who aren’t afraid to openly proclaim their faith on the biggest stages,” he said. “Seeing players use their platform to give glory to God motivates me to do the same here at the high school level.”
That perspective shapes how he views success for the Patriots. “Since we are a smaller school, it’s an awesome feeling to lead our team to big stages,” Kouplen said. “It gives us a chance to not only represent our student body but also to represent our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.”
Kouplen’s life is full even when he is not in a baseball uniform. He also suits up for Metro Christian’s varsity football team as a safety and running back and stays busy running a photography business, shooting games for other high school athletes and showcasing his work on Instagram at @fotosbyf1nn.
On the field, he points to teammates such as Matthew Williams, “definitely our most vocal leader,” and Luke Huff, who “always keeps the mood light and everyone laughing.” He said sports have taught him to push through adversity and to turn failure into fuel to move forward.
“The strength of my game is definitely my performance on the mound,” Kouplen said. “Right now, I’m focused on becoming more consistent in the batter’s box to help the team offensively.”
