By Bryce McKinnis
The modern chapter of Moore High School softball’s story is one of surgent success. It’s a story that cannot be told without mentioning Libby Jaques.
“I hope people remember me as a great teammate and competitor,” the Lions senior and future Oklahoma State University Cowgirl said.
Two-time district player of the year. Two-time district player of the year. The Oklahoman Female Athlete of the Year. A 32-4 record and state tournament appearance last year.
A standout three-sport athlete, Jaques has also received district and conference honors in basketball and won the 6A shot put title last spring, setting an MHS record with a 46-foot, 7-inch heave. She has surely left an indelible mark on her school.
Jaques is the daughter of a Texas A&M-Kingsville softball player and football player. Her oldest brother followed in their father’s footsteps and currently plays defensive end for the Javelinas. Her middle brother is a talented musician and plays sousaphone for the Pride of Oklahoma. Libby built on her family’s legacy when she committed to OSU in September of 2023.
“When I was four, my grams was a counselor at Oklahoma State University and worked closely with the women’s basketball team. I used to get to go to the locker room and all the girls would pick me up and take pictures with me. . . That’s when I first fell in love with OSU,” Jaques said. “Then, as I got older, I got more into softball and started going to Coach [Kenny] Gajewski’s OSU softball camps. They had the same feeling! The coaches really care and always put special effort into helping me get better.”
Good genetics aren’t the only factor in Jaques’ success as an athlete. She possesses a unique work ethic and takes sincere pride in leaving behind a lasting legacy with her teammates.
“I hope all my teammates for them both on the field, court, track and off! I give everything I have in every game and event. I dive for balls, hustle, anything I can to get us a win,” Jaques said. “I also really care about my teammates and try to pick them up when they are down, give rides, learn plays, stay after and help whatever they need!”
Jaques is also a member of National Honor Society and assists with Special Olympics. She has had the opportunity to shadow OT and PT professionals in her internship class at MHS and is heavily involved in her youth group at Life Church.