By Ken Hansard
Carthage High School softball player and student-athlete Jenna Calhoon spoke to VYPE SPORTS in a recent interview.
VYPE SPORTS: What are your personal goals for the year?
Calhoon: Prior to this season, I hoped our team would have a winning season, win the Central Ozark Conference, and win Districts. As a team we wanted to create a safe, loving sisterhood. As for my personal goals, I wanted to remain confident and play with joy as I knew these would be my last moments on the field. Statistically I wanted to produce more than 30 RBI and put myself in scoring position for teammates. I am so proud of my ability to fulfill both these goals, as I led the team in doubles and was second in RBI’s.
VYPE SPORTS: What is your favorite athletic memory?
Calhoon: My favorite memory was this year during our nine-inning game against Republic. We had a runner on second, and I hit a ball over shortstop but too shallow for the outfield, allowing our runner to score! I was so proud to have pulled through for my team and to show my younger teammates that hard work can pay off.
VYPE SPORTS: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?
Calhoon: I have met so many amazing people and coaches who have helped push me to accomplish my goals. One of these, in particular, has been Presley Probert. I have known Presley since we were both little girls, so playing alongside her was such an honor. Presley has such a big heart and is so competitive. I always admired her ability to create such an amazing relationship with the underclassmen, including me, while showing her passion for the game. I am so grateful to continue to spend time with her outside of softball.
VYPE SPORTS: What is your favorite part of being on this team?
Calhoon: My favorite part of being surrounded with so many girls and our coaches is the bonds and memories we create. My teammates and coaches have created a safe, loving sisterhood that can’t be replaced. We created connections and have many inside jokes, but most importantly, we aren’t afraid to be ourselves. And the coaches were involved, as well. We love to create jokes with them and form bonds with them, too. The relationships between the players and coaches are what make our team so special.
VYPE SPORTS: What clubs or campus groups are you involved with and why?
Calhoon: Along with softball, I am also involved in Student Council, National Honor Society, Carthage Technical Center Ambassadors, Link Crew, Future Business Leaders of America, and Bridge Students.
VYPE SPORTS: What accolades (in any sport or activity) are you most proud of?
Calhoon: In Student Council I have been an executive officer for two years, and in National Honor Society I have been nominated by my peers to be the Reporter for our organization. I was Top 5% of the 2025 Class, as well as Academic-All State. I was named Offensive Player of the Year, COC First Team, among others, but I am most proud to hold two Carthage Lady Tiger Records. As a sophomore, I set the record for the most RBI in a single season, and I now hold the record for the most RBI in a career.
VYPE SPORTS: What has your sport taught you that you use in your daily life?
Calhoon: Many activities, including softball, are not about the awards or success but the lessons we have learned along the way. Softball has taught me how to communicate with adults and peers professionally and nicely. Softball has taught me how to overcome adversity and challenges. I have learned how to remain confident despite failure. Softball has taught me patience during those long inning games. I am so grateful for these lessons, and I can’t wait to see how I can apply them in my future.
VYPE SPORTS: What is the best advice that anyone has given you?
Calhoon: One of my favorite coaches once told me to “Focus on the many good things you have done in past games and not the one bad thing you do in one game.” This has stuck with me. It is very easy to get sucked into our failures, but we have so much to be proud of.
VYPE SPORTS: Who inspires you and why?
Calhoon: Growing up, I always admired my sister, Emily Calhoon, and her team. My sister put in numerous hours of work outside of practice to improve her game. I watched her overcome a serious injury that could have derailed her career. This inspired me to do the same when I faced the same injury – not once, but twice. My sister is my best friend for life, and I am so blessed to have grown up watching her play the sport we both love.
VYPE SPORTS: Here is your chance to give a shoutout or say thank you to anyone you wish.
Calhoon: I have been so lucky to be surrounded by such amazing teammates, family, friends, and coaches. I can’t thank my family enough for the countless hours spent traveling, the numerous hugs and pick-me-ups they’ve provided, and all the practices at the fields or in the front yard. I also would like to thank all my coaches over the years for the skills I have learned on and off the field, and for the leadership they have demonstrated. I thank my sisters for providing me with a second family and always being all-in! Thank you all and thank you Carthage Lady Tiger Softball!
