From Jenks to West Point: Jack McInelly
Photo Credit: Jack McInelly
By: Cooper Williams
Jack McInelly is a 2024-2025 graduate from Jenks High School who is currently at Army West Point. He’s a Jenks lifer, Football player, Lacrosse player, Mr. JHS runner-up, and member of multiple other clubs. Not only did he show the meaning of being a Trojan, but he's now on the way to showing what it means to be a patriot.
McInelly breaking the Lacrosse scoring record at Jenks.
Photo Credit: @jenkstrojanlacrosse
McInelly not only is currently attending West Point, but he is also on scholarship to play lacrosse there.
"I get to play on one of the best lacrosse teams in the nation," said McInelly.
Playing lacrosse on a club team at Impulse and holding the all-time scoring record at Jenks in lacrosse, McInelly knows what it means to work hard and want to be a part of something bigger than himself.
"I've known Jack for so many years, we practically grew up together,” said Jenks graduate Carson Mariska, who played on the lacrosse team with McInelly. "Just being a good leader on and off the field, a lot of my traits actually come from him, just being able to grow up beside him has meant a lot to me."
Carson Mariska: Left, Jack McInelly: Right
Photo Credit: Jack McInelly
Being at West Point, McInelly was surprised by the drive and motivation of the people around him. Back at Jenks;
"Not everyone shares that same level of dedication, so being in an environment where everyone pushes themselves inspires me to do the same. I've really loved it here," said McInelly in regards to the environment of the campus and people.
Growing up, McInelly was shaped by his people around him at Jenks and influenced by his family at home. Through sports and family responsibilities, he was able to learn things that influenced his choices now at West Point.
"My family instilled in me strong morals, a sense of responsibility, and the value of hard work. Jenks' community reinforced those lessons, showing how teamwork can help achieve big things," said McInelly.
In three to five years, he sees himself commissioned as an officer. He has intense military training, academics, and countless responsibilities to attend to throughout that time.
"I'm still currently exploring my branch option, but I think infantry or aviation is what I'm leaning towards. The road ahead is challenging, but I want to be pushed to my limits," said McInelly.
In conclusion, McInelly has taken things he learned at home and in the Jenks community and used them to better himself at West Point. At one of the most prestigious universities in the country, he's gotten a scholarship to play the sport he loves and made a plan to serve the country after, to be a part of something bigger than himself.
