Words by Skylar Lara | Cover image by Ryan McGill
Meet Jenna Madison, a senior infielder on the Curry High School softball team renowned for her lightning-fast first step. Possessing unlimited potential and exemplifying model humility, Jenna stands as a crucial contributor to the Yellowjackets’ success on the diamond, instrumental in securing a state championship in 2022.
Jenna’s affinity for softball has been ingrained since a young age, starting at age four and persisting through relocations to Colorado and back to Walker County. Hailing from a family of athletes, Jenna shares athletic genes with both of her siblings and her mother, as well as her father who was once a Chicago White Sox prospect. Describing her love for softball, Jenna enthusiastically notes, “I just love the intensity of a close game. It really gets me excited.”
Beyond the softball field, Jenna showcases her athletic prowess on the basketball court, attributing her improved speed and hand-eye coordination to the sport. Boasting impressive ball-handling and shooting skills, Jenna acknowledges the pivotal role played by her coaches, Coach Lawson and Coach Baker, in her growth as a player. “They have really helped me since I came here and welcomed me when I moved back. They’ve always pushed me to be the best that I can be.”
Jenna extends her athletic pursuits to the Birmingham Thunderbolts in travel ball, crediting her coaches and teammates for her ongoing development.
As Curry gears up to face Hoover on February 15 in their season opener, Jenna expresses optimism for another state championship, noting the return of the majority of her team this year. “I think if we do what we know we can do, we’ll make a run.”
Looking ahead to her 2024 graduation, Jenna has committed to play college softball and pursue a physical education degree at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Despite initially committing to Grand Canyon University in Arizona, a change of heart led her to choose UAB for its proximity to home and the allure of the program. Reflecting on her decision, Jenna shares, “I reached out to Coach Darty at UAB and went on a visit. I ended up falling in love with it, and it was hard to beat what they are building there.”
When not busy swiping bases or excelling in extracurriculars like Beta Club, Spanish Club, and Math Club, Jenna is an active participant in her church’s youth group, and she finds solace in nature, whether hunting with family or casting a line while fishing.
Asked to sum herself up in one word, Jenna, with a gentle smile, replies, “Humble. I never show off or rub my success in someone’s face. I try to always pick my teammates up and give it everything I have.”
Jenna’s unwavering dedication to being a supportive teammate and her relentless determination have sparked a buzz in the community. Together with the Yellow Jackets, she is resolute in adding another championship to Curry High School’s already impressive softball legacy. WL
