McKenna Ray will play softball at the University of North Alabama. CONTRIBUTED/Greg Machen Photography

Athlete of the Week

MADISON – McKenna Ray made her mark while playing softball at Bob Jones High School.

“I would like to thank my parents and all of the coaches I have had through the years for helping me achieve all of my accomplishments,” Ray said. “Without them pushing me and encouraging me, I wouldn’t be the leader, teammate and daughter I am today.”

A member of the Class of 2016, Ray primarily served as catcher for the Bob Jones Patriots. “But I also played third base, short stop and second base,” she said.

Baseball ranked as Ray’s favorite sport “because it taught me how to be a leader to others and brought me closer to my teammates. Softball forms bonds with people that will last forever. The physical and mental part of this game is exhausting but all worth it in the end.”

While at Bob Jones, Ray also participated in Peer Helpers to listen and discuss situations that other students were facing, especially students who had just moved to Madison and were new to Bob Jones.

“My parents are Tom and Lajeanna Ray. My dad works on Redstone Arsenal. My mom is a physical education aid at Heritage Elementary School,” McKenna said. “Without them, I don’t know where I would be. They push me to be the best I can, and I can’t thank them enough for everything they do for me.”

McKenna has three brothers: Jacob, sophomore at the University of Alabama; Dylan, eighth-grader at Discovery Middle School; and Brayden, sixth-grader at Heritage Elementary School.

Q&A

Q: Where do you like to eat out in Madison?
A: Cricket’s.

Q: What is your favorite food?
A: Pasta.

Q: What are your favorite sports teams?
A: University of Alabama football and softball.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?
A: “I like to hang out with friends and family,” McKenna said.

Q: What are your plans now that you have graduated from Bob Jones?
A: McKenna plans to play softball at the University of North Alabama and pursue a degree in elementary education.