Jennifer Labsch-McKee

When I received the call that I’d been selected for the PIL Hall of Fame I was quite surprised and deeply honored. Thinking back to this era of my life has been not only nostalgic, but a reminder of my roots and some of the most impactful experiences and people that helped shape who I am today. 

As I reflect on my success as an athlete at Madison High, it’s very clear that none of it would’ve been possible without the support of my teammates, coaches and family. Playing team sports taught me so much about work ethic, integrity and grit. How to win and lose gracefully and how to push through seasons that feel incredibly discouraging. I was fortunate enough to play on championship teams as well as teams that struggled to win a game all season. Now, many years later, I can clearly see how those lessons transfer to life and all that I’ve navigated to get to where I am today. 

What really stands out to me are the coaches who believed in me before I believed in myself.  Coach Lisa Owens, who not only pushed our limits but through repetition taught us to hone skills and personally taught me to “cut the chatter” in my mind to be able to show up fully on the field and give the best effort possible. Mistakes and errors happen, but if you give your best you can walk off the field proud – win or lose. And there’s Coach Christie (McFarlane) Smith, who after my freshman year encouraged me to attend an Elite summer camp (that I was in no way ready for). Through that experience, I learned from high level coaches and players who pushed me to limits I didn’t know I had. The skills learned that summer far exceeded what I could do on the court – a belief that with determination and hard work, success is possible and that success comes at all levels. 

There have been many other coaches along the way that I’ve learned valuable lessons and skills from, each having their own take on success, for which I’m very grateful. I would be remiss, however, if I didn’t mention my parents. With my dad as my Little League coach and mom as the head scorekeeper, I always had a personal cheering section and an encouraging voice at the end of the day. They were a constant source of support that enabled me to participate, attend camps and travel with teams for years and years A lesson in love that I treasure. 

Thank you for this incredibly special nomination and honor. It’s been wonderful to re-visit such special memories – the friendships made andl essons learned during an incredibly fun and competitive season of life. 

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