Machelle Rodman & Family Make Big Impact on Jenks
Throughout a program’s history there will be many volunteers who make their kids time with the program special. From working concession stands and fundraising to supporting the team through thick and thin, these volunteers are the unsung heroes of high school sports.
At Jenks High School, few people have put in the time that Machelle Rodman has over the years. With three student-athletes, the Rodman family has made a lifetime of helping their kids grow into amazing students, athletes and people. While every kid is different, Machelle said she knew early on that her youngest would follow in her sister’s footsteps.
“I kinda knew from the very beginning. On her [Bella] very first day of T-ball practice, she said, “Coach I don’t need a tee to hit the ball.’ And at that moment, I thought she was going to be both confident and competitive,” Machelle said.
Looking back on Bella’s career at JHS is a bittersweet moment. Bellas started as a freshman for the varsity softball team.
“When I think back on Bella’s playing days at JHS, the moments I’ll remember most are the ones she shared with her sister, Natalie. Watching the two of them out there together competing side-by-side, pushing each other, celebrating each other, and making it all the way to state together, that was something truly special. Those are the memories I’ll carry with me forever,” Machelle said.
With three athletes in the house, someone was always training. Bella started at a young age and her hard work has paid off.
“That foundation was built when she was very young. She had incredible travel-ball coaches who pushed her, and she spent countless hours taking hitting, fielding, and pitching lessons. I truly believe that the hard work she put in at such a young age is the reason she’s been able to accomplish so much in softball today,” Machelle said.
The support system at home has allowed all three athletes to flourish.
“As a family, we couldn’t be more proud of her accomplishments. We’ve watched her grow from the little bat girl running around her sister’s team to becoming an accomplished athlete in her own right. Seeing that transformation has been one of the greatest joys for our family,” said Machelle. “One thing I’ve learned is that young athletes need a steady foundation of encouragement and support from their parents, their families, and their coaches. That support is what gives them confidence, keeps them grounded, and helps them grow both on and off the field.”
Catheryn Rodman graduated from Jenks High School in 2019 and went on to play four years of college softball and is now working toward a doctoral degree in DPT. Middle daughter Natalie graduated from JHS in 2023 and is currently in her third year of college, playing softball for Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO. Bella has signed with FLC and will play alongside her sister next year.
