Perkins High School sophomore Jentri Moody is quickly establishing herself as a key contributor on the varsity softball team, bringing composure, discipline and a team-first mindset to every inning.
Moody, who plays both pitcher and second baseman, embraces the mental and physical demands of her roles. As a pitcher, she understands the pressure that comes with leading from the circle.
“The most difficult thing about being a pitcher is keeping composure when the pressure is high and not letting your emotions affect you in a negative way,” Moody said. “Pitchers feel the pressure to not let their team down and that can weigh heavily on them mentally.”
At second base, she relies on quickness and chemistry with her teammates, especially when turning double plays.
“The most difficult thing about being a second baseman is having to be quick on your feet and having quick hands to roll the double plays,” she said. “Double plays with Landry is my favorite part.”
Moody credits her parents as her biggest inspiration, pointing to their constant encouragement and support. She also looks up to collegiate pitcher Ruby Meylan.
“She is a very confident player in the circle and is always hyping up her teammates,” Moody said. “As I develop and mature in this sport, I try to model behaviors of elite athletes like her.”
Off the field, Moody values relationships and personal growth. She enjoys spending time with friends and reading her Bible, and she carries those values into her team environment.
“I enjoy being a member of the team because we all are really good friends and everyone has each other’s backs,” she said. “We are always pushing each other to do our best and picking each other up when we are down.”
Moody also emphasizes sportsmanship as a core principle of the game.
“We should respect each other even when the game is close or heated,” she said. “At the end of the day, we are all here playing the sport we love.”
Her approach at the plate reflects her calm mindset.
“I always take a deep breath while getting in the box and I focus on getting my load and timing down to the pitcher,” she said.
Through athletics, Moody has learned lessons that extend beyond softball.
“You have to learn from failure instead of letting it affect you,” she said. “You have to bounce back and be ready for the next play.”
As she continues her sophomore season, Moody’s leadership, resilience and positive outlook make her a valuable presence for Perkins High School.
