Jenks senior Temperance Parker brings a competitive edge to the softball field, but the varsity pitcher also measures success by the people around her. As she prepares for another season with the Trojans, Parker is focused on helping younger teammates grow into future leaders while remaining a dependable presence in the circle.
“I am excited to build the younger class man so one day they become great leaders and learn to love the game as much as I do,” Parker said.
That team-first mindset has been shaped by the support Parker feels from her teammates. Pitching often places an athlete at the center of the action, especially in close games, but Parker said she trusts the players behind her regardless of what happens on the mound.
“I am a pitcher, and I love that no matter what happens on the mound my teammates always have my back,” Parker said.
For Parker, that support reflects the close bond within the Jenks program. She values the ability of her teammates to remain connected beyond the result of any single game.
“I love that we all are friends at the end of the day, no matter the outcome on the field we all get along so well,” Parker said.
Parker credits both of her parents for influencing her approach to athletics. Her mother motivates her to compete at a high level, while her father has taught her the importance of being a strong teammate.
“My mom inspires me to be the best athlete I can be and to stay competitive no matter how important a game may seem on paper. My dad inspires me to be a great teammate and look out for others every time I step on the field,” Parker said.
Her competitive nature is one of the biggest strengths she brings to the Trojans. Still, Parker understands that being a successful pitcher also requires emotional control and composure.
“My strength is my competitiveness. I want to win at everything I do no matter how big or small the games may seem. I am working on showing less emotion while playing and staying levelheaded,” Parker said.
A lesson from last season continues to guide Parker as she enters her senior year: concentrate on what she can control and play for her teammates.
“I learned to stop worrying about the uncontrollables and to play for the girl next to me not for myself,” Parker said.
Away from softball, Parker runs track and is dual enrolled in college classes. After graduation, she hopes to continue playing softball in college, major in biology and eventually attend medical school to become an anesthesiologist.
