This year’s cross country season marked a triumphant return to a sport she hadn’t competed in since middle school for Chickasha High School senior Kenzie Mowery.

“This year God gifted me with a healthy and wonderful cross country season, considering that this was my first year back to the sport since middle school,” Mowery said.

The Fightin’ Chicks varsity runner has seamlessly transitioned the endurance and strength she built during cross country season into her spring sport.

“Currently I am using the skills I trained for in cross country season, such as strength and endurance, to play tennis,” she said.

Behind Mowery’s athletic success stands Angela Widener, who coaches both her cross country and tennis teams.

“One of my biggest inspirations in life is my tennis and cross country coach, Angela Widener,” Mowery said. “She is so positive and uplifting and equips her students and athletes with the tools they need to succeed. She is such a light in my life personally and is not just one of my coaches, but one of my closest friends.”

Beyond athletics, Mowery has found community through the school’s FFA chapter, which she joined as a freshman after encouragement from Chickasha High School secretary Elaine Murray.

“What I love most about being in FFA is all of the lifelong friendships and connections I have been able to make with students across the nation through activities such as the National FFA Chorus,” Mowery said.

The busy senior also participates in Pom, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Student Council and National Honor Society. In her limited free time, she enjoys singing, playing piano, traveling, hiking, serving at church and spending time with family and friends.

After graduation, Mowery plans to attend Oklahoma Baptist University to study theology and ministry.

“After I graduate, I plan on attending Oklahoma Baptist University to study Theology and Ministry in order to work in Vocational Ministry as a Worship Leader, Biblical Counselor or Children’s Instructor,” she said.