Behind the Scenes with Temperance Parker

Sports

Nov 5

By: Kali Crowe

Feelings of uncertainty, nervous glances at strangers passing by, struggling to find your next class mere minutes before the bell rings — these are all emotions that a typical new student would feel, but not Temperance Parker. With her bright smile, bubbly personality, and experience in both softball and media, Parker is the last person to let moving schools dim her light.

At first glance, Parker seems like an average teenage girl, which might raise the question: “What’s so special about her that she deserves a whole story written about her?” Well, for starters, Parker plays for the varsity softball team at Jenks High School.

“At my old school, I was the power hitter, and here at Jenks I’ve kind of fallen into that same role while also using my speed to my advantage to move other runners,” said Parker in response to how playing for Jenks compares to her previous team.

Parker also states that when it comes to the softball team, she’s socially fit in with the seniors — which is hard since they are graduating — but they’ve gotten to know her for more than her skills on the field, which she appreciates.

Parker recently had a tooth extraction surgery, which she kept pushing back in order to be there for her team. Even when she finally went through with the surgery, she still showed up for her team and attended practice.

On and off the field, Parker is an outstanding student, teammate, and young woman. Even though she had no clue what the Jenks curriculum would look like, Parker did not let that stop her and still enrolled in AP and Honors classes. Was it academically challenging at first? Yes — but as she adjusted to her new team, she also adjusted to the school’s environment.

Parker also has a history in news writing and media. She writes articles for the newspaper in Okemah and does photography outside of school.

“My media experience has allowed me to get different perspectives and help give athletes who don’t get much attention the spotlight,” said Parker, explaining how her media experience has helped her as a student and athlete.

With this experience, Parker is considering majoring in sports broadcasting and working her way up to broadcast for the NFL. She is also considering a future as a coach — not only because of her hardworking and motivational mindset, but also because it has been recommended to her by her loved ones and peers.