Makenzie Clay
With two kids attending Broken Arrow Public Schools and competing in sports, Makenzie Clay is a busy mother.
Oldest daughter Taylor Clay is a junior and a member of the fastpitch and slow-pitch teams at the high school, while Cayden Clay is a freshman and a soccer player. Makenzie is involved with both teams in various ways.
“With the softball team, I run the scoreboard, take team pictures during season, and serve as team mom, provide meals for the bus rides, help lead locker decorations, assist the board with banquets and other various tasks. For Cayden’s soccer team, I take team pictures during season and share with the team, parents, and players,” said Makenzie.
Serving as a volunteer, Makenzie said every team has a lot that needs attention, and she is happy to help where she can.
“I really enjoy pitching in to help the coaches and teams whenever I can. It’s all about making the game more fun for the kids and taking some stress off the coaches’ shoulders. Seeing the kids’ reactions to the things I’ve helped with is so rewarding. Recent examples: I’ve surprised the senior softball players with custom state locker room posters the last two years, set up super competitive scavenger hunts before state tournaments, and captured some pretty great goal celebrations on camera. Helping to create lasting memories makes giving my time worthwhile. It can be exhausting, but it’ll be over before I know it and I don’t regret getting any extra time with my kids and the kids that have become a second family to my own,” said Makenzie.
Parent involvement is important at every level. Makenzie said the BA family shows unwavering support for their student-athletes.
“I believe it’s crucial for parents to be engaged in their kids’ activities because it demonstrates unwavering support. Whether it’s celebrating a victory or consoling them after a tough loss, being there consistently reassures them that you’re in their corner. Kids grow up fast, and they’ll remember those moments. I’ll be there for my kids every step of the way, no doubt about it,” said Makenzie.
Originally from Catoosa, Makenzie and the Clay family are proud to be Tigers.
“I’m a fan of BA because even though it’s big, there are endless opportunities to grow both academically and athletically. I attended Catoosa from kindergarten all the way through my senior year,” said Makenzie.
When free time presents itself, the Clay family enjoys getting outdoors.
“When we’re not traveling to softball or soccer tournaments, you’ll find us outdoors or on the water. You won’t see me taking a dip in the lake water though – I prefer to stay dry in the boat or kayak! But you can bet I’ll be in my own kayak, holding theirs steady, or filming from the boat, and cheering on the kids as they tackle wakeboarding or jumping off cliffs and trees into the lake or river,” said Makenzie.
