Whether he’s playing under the Friday night lights or on the lacrosse field, senior Kyle Jenkins understands that leadership is shown through actions, not just words.
Jenkins, a standout at Hamilton Southeastern High School, balances the rigorous demands of both football and lacrosse, a dual commitment that few athletes can manage successfully. With an opportunity to play Division I lacrosse at Quinnipiac University next year, his impact extends far beyond personal performance; it reaches every teammate looking to match his standard.
“One part of my leadership that stays the same is making sure I’m always setting the standard,” Jenkins said. “You can talk a lot, but it only matters when you’ve earned respect through your actions.”
That leadership is shaped differently by each sport. In football, toughness often comes through physicality, playing through injuries or pushing through the grind of practice and game day. Lacrosse, while still physically demanding, challenges athletes in new ways. Jenkins says it requires mental toughness as players are constantly competing to perform at their best.
“Toughness is perceived in a lot of ways,” Jenkins explained. “Football is more physical, you’re playing through injuries, sometimes even having to sit out. Lacrosse challenges you differently. People are competing constantly, pushing each other to be at the top of their game, which requires a lot of mental toughness.”
Jenkins leads first by example, letting his play set the tone before he speaks up. But his voice carries weight, particularly on the lacrosse field, where his experience gives him a unique perspective.
“I have more knowledge in lacrosse, so I find myself speaking up more there,” Jenkins said. “I try to carry the same swagger from football into lacrosse. You can’t hide on the football field here in Central Indiana, and I bring that confidence to lacrosse to help others believe in themselves.”
Even injuries have shaped his approach. Being sidelined has allowed Jenkins to see the game from a different perspective, understanding how teammates think and why they make certain choices. That awareness strengthens his ability to lead and guide others.
“Being injured lets me see the game differently,” Jenkins said. “I can understand how others are thinking, which helps me guide them in the moment.”
For Jenkins, leadership is about confidence, preparation, and respect. By bringing mental toughness, strong play, and awareness of his teammates to the field, he becomes more than just a player and helps the team improve.
“Leadership isn’t just about what you say, it’s about what you show,” Jenkins said. “If I can stay confident, focused, and give my all, I can help lift not just my performance, but everyone around me.”
At Hamilton Southeastern, Kyle Jenkins isn’t just setting an example, he’s raising the bar for everyone who steps onto the field after him.
“Every time I step onto the field, I want to leave it better than I found it,” Jenkins said. “If I can make one teammate better, one play stronger, or one moment count, then I know I’ve done my job.”
