Originally Published November 13, 2020
Sophomore Kynli Jones is a varsity fastpitch softball player at McAlester High School. The first baseman said she’s grateful for having the opportunity to return to school and play softball this season.
“I was grateful to come back and be able to play the sport that I love and to have a sense of normalcy. As for school, I loved being able to see all of my friends that I haven’t seen since March,” said Jones.
Being a member of this team is something special for Jones. “I love how we were bonded together by the love of softball and have grown to be great friends,” said Jones.
Away from softball, Jones is involved in several activities at school and plays other sports in the winter and spring seasons.
“I am a State Ambassador for 4-H Club, I am on the yearbook staff at McAlester High School, I play slow pitch softball in the spring and I also play basketball in the winter,” said Jones.
Playing sports at the next level is certainly something Jones would like to do. Playing college softball and pursuing a career in anesthesiology is her goal. Helping her reach those goals are family members and coaches.
“My family has always been my biggest supporters and are always there for me. They have taught me the importance of good work ethic on and off the field, to always give 110 percent, and to be a positive influence for others. They support and encourage me in everything and are my biggest fans. My coaches are also a big influence on my life. They not only teach us the game of softball, but they instill lessons that we will carry with us throughout our life,” said Jones.
Being a student-athlete at McAlester High is something Jones does not take for granted.
“MHS has given me opportunities to grow as a student and an athlete. I have been able to take honor classes and choose from a variety of electives. As an athlete, we have a summer training program that strengthens and conditions our team, so we are ready for the season. Off season is when you put in the work, the season is when you see the results of that hard work. Being an honors student and an athlete, I feel that the teachers and coaches hold me to a high standard and want me to be successful in all aspects of life,” said Jones.
