By Derrick Smith

Coaches play a big role in the growth and development of their athletes. The hours spent at practice, preparing for games, as well as the support that they give are key to the success of an athlete.

Allison Henry says that every coach she has played for has made some kind of an impact on her game and her life. “All of the coaches I’ve had through my journey of playing softball have all had a hand in my success,” she said. “Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Giving almost every weekend to the sport for tournaments to improve and learn, also the hours of practicing and doing the little things like tee work.”

Henry is a senior at Edmond North High School, where she is a member of the softball team. Softball has been a part of her life for about fourteen years, starting when she played teeball at the age of three.

Throughout her life, there have been people that have touched her life and helped her in different ways. Henry says that there are a few people that have made big impacts on her life. “The biggest role models for me are my parents and my grandma,” she said. “They have always been examples for me of what hard work is and where it can get you in life. They have also shown me countless times to always lean on my faith for strength and confidence in anything in life.”

The highlight moment of Allison’s career is not a victory or an individual milestone she reached. Instead it was something that she and her teammates accomplished together. “My best memory happened during my sophomore year,” she said. “We made it to the state championship game. Even though we lost, it was an experience unlike any other and I will never forget it.”

Henry serves as co-editor of the school yearbook at ENHS. She says that she has learned so much from her yearbook advisor, Mrs. Huffman. “She has taught me real-life lessons through yearbook and other things that have happened in my life,” she said. “Also she has helped me understand the importance of teamwork in life.”