Jessica Robinson is the head coach of the Altus softball team as well as the boys and girls tennis teams. She is in her 13th year and the school, and her seventh as a coach.

VYPE: What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Robinson: I love working with athletes, sharing a passion for sports. The kids are the best part about teaching and coaching, getting to be a part of their lives, and watching them use and develop their strengths is rewarding

VYPE: What caused you to get into coaching?

Robinson: I think it felt like a natural move. I was always interested, but I was focused on becoming a good teacher early in my career. The right opportunities came around to help with my two favorite sports, and I couldn’t pass up the opportunity.

VYPE: What have been some of the highlights of your coaching career?

Robinson: We have had some big program-shifting wins in softball over the past few years that I’ll never forget. Beating Guthrie at our regional in my first year as head coach was special. It got us within one game of the state tournament, Maci Hayes pitched a lights-out game, and so many girls stepped up who had worked so hard over the years. To see them in that position is something I’ll never forget!  We had a big win at home over Elgin when they were undefeated in our district, and big wins over Duncan and Guthrie last year. Those games are special because of some special performances by our girls, and how it defined our standard of play. In tennis, those podium matches and moments are ones you never forget. Last year, Evyn Bull and Olivia Williams played incredibly all year long, finishing third and hugging them after the year they had. I’ll never forget it. Our kids work so hard pouring so much of their time into their sports, and it’s special to see their success on the biggest stage.

VYPE: Who are some coaches that have impacted or influenced you or your career?

Robinson: Coach Brad Cary, my high school softball coach, was an incredible man. He never failed to make you feel loved and pushed you to be your best. He was there for me when my father passed during my junior year, and he showed me grace when I wasn’t at my best that season. He passed from cancer after I graduated, and since I’ve gotten into coaching, I think of him often. I don’t remember the wins and losses, but I remember how much he cared and how he made me feel.

VYPE: Who are some college or professional coaches that you look up to, if any?

Robinson: Pat Summit, Patty Gasso, Dawn Staley, and Becky Hammon – they are all great female coaches.