Autumn Jones, a Woodward High School soccer player, doesn’t believe her skills on the pitch, 

nor her ability to juggle several activities, would be possible without her relationship to God.

“So, I do my best to keep Him at the center of it all and give Him the glory,” Jones said. “I think, as a student-athlete, it’s easy to get so caught up in practice and games that we put our sport at the center of our life, when the whole reason we have the privilege of playing sports is because of God! We should give him the glory for every win or loss!”

Jones also participates in National Honor Society and FCA and serves as president of Sub Debs. She attends Lincoln Avenue Baptist Church, where she volunteers in other responsibilities.

“My hobbies include mostly hanging out with friends, shopping and sometimes traveling,” Jones said.

Jones’ soccer career began at about 5 years old. Her dad, an avid soccer fan, introduced her to the sport.

“Soccer has taught me many life lessons,” Jones said. “I’ve learned how to communicate effectively with my teammates and how to be a good leader. This has come in handy this year as I’ve been presented more leadership roles.”

Jones aims to lead by example and makes an effort to encourage her teammates when the opportunity arises. Positivity, she said, is a key to being an effective leader.

Jones also considers prioritizing a key initiative in managing her busy schedule.

“Growing up, I was raised to the standard that school comes first and that has taught me to take my academics seriously. The older I get, the more I realize good grades are important to set the path for a better future” Jones said. “Prioritizing homework instead of procrastinating it has been most useful to keep my focus on getting good grades.”