By Trina Walker
Payton Koch got her start in softball thanks to her mom, who played the sport. Remembering how much she loved softball growing up, Koch’s mom signed her up for a team when she was six. From that point on, her love for softball has continued to grow.
Now a junior at Jenks High School, Koch is learning important lessons on the field. The value of a strong work ethic, determination and resilience is reinforced by playing softball. Getting to spend extra time with her friends is just a bonus.
Koch grew up in Jenks with coaches and girls she has known since the beginning of her softball career. Representing the school and community she calls home is a role she accepts with pride.
“Softball has helped me make many long-term friends and helped me learn a lot about myself,” Koch said.
Her current teammate and one of her best friends is Josie Jervis. Koch says Jervis has helped her get through many things, on and off the field. Without softball, this friendship and the friendships made with other teammates would not have been possible.
Many memories come to mind when recalling her years playing softball but one stands out as a favorite. It was her sophomore year when she was pitching in the first game against Broken Arrow.
“We won and we haven’t beaten them in several years,” Koch said, recalling the exciting victory.
Koch finds inspiration in her mother and is thankful to her family and coaches for their support.
“I want to thank my parents for always doing whatever they can to help me, my Nana and Papa for always coming to games whenever they can and for being my biggest fans,” she said. Additionally, Koch thanks all the coaches who have shaped her into the player she is today.
She loves hanging out with her friends and baking when she has time. In the classroom Koch’s favorite teacher is Mr. Sharp. Her favorite subject is science. In college she plans to play softball and use her love of science to study nursing.
Wherever her future leads, Koch remembers this advice:
“Everything happens for a reason.”
