Kim Jones knows she’s been rattled once too often.
For four years, Jones has anchored West Springfield’s defense. Arms, legs, bodies and words often tangle as the best forwards take on one of the Northern Region’s best defenders.
And as a younger player, when Jones encountered a dirty tackle or a bit of trash talk, she often allowed her talent to be comprised by her quick temper. But this season she’s dedicated herself to rising above the fray and showing the confidence the Spartans need to have a legitimate shot at winning a Patriot District title.
“The maturity I’ve seen from her, especially this year — in the past sometime she’s struggled a little bit, she has a tendency to lose her composure,” said Spartans coach Kellie Mastrodonato. “We talked at the beginning of the year that it was something that we needed from her … and she’s risen to the occasion.”
Jones improved her speed and joined a more competitive club team during the off-season, but she knows it’s her leadership that is most important.
“I hear a lot from [the coaches] about my composure and how much I’ve grown, and I don’t want to get out of that because I have to get ready for college,” said Jones, who has signed with East Tennessee State.
“Just last week I turned to her after practice, and I said, ‘Kim, I gotta tell you right now, I don’t think I thank you nearly enough for the messes you clean up,’” said Mastrodonato. “The girl’s got incredible athletic ability. She’s got a lot of heart, and she’s a true competitor.”
