Bethel’s Zack Jennings
Bethel High School shortstop Zack Jennings has learned that the game he loves demands as much from the mind as it does from the body. As he prepares for another season, he credits his growth to steady work, strong relationships and a team culture built on trust.
Jennings said the best part of playing at Bethel is the bond he shares with his teammates and the standard they set for one another. “What I love most about my team at Bethel is how connected we are,” he said. “Everyone is bought in, works hard, and holds each other accountable. We trust one another on the field, and that chemistry makes us better as a team.”
The junior shortstop points to his family and coaches as the people who shaped his drive. “I’m inspired most by my parents and coaches,” Jennings said. “They’ve always pushed me to work hard, stay disciplined, and never be satisfied. Seeing the sacrifices they make motivates me to give my best every day.”
Jennings said his biggest leap has come in his day-to-day consistency, especially in how he prepares before games and practices. “The biggest improvement in my game has been my consistency, especially with my approach and preparation,” he said. “I’ve focused on improving the little things, and that’s helped me feel more confident heading into the season.”
As Bethel’s shortstop, Jennings embraces the responsibility that comes with being in the middle of the diamond. “I play shortstop, and the most difficult part is staying mentally locked in every pitch, handling pressure, defensive responsibility, but that challenge is what makes it rewarding,” he said. One of his favorite memories so far is simple but meaningful: “My favorite moment was hitting my first home run.”
Jennings works to stay balanced through academics and leadership roles on campus. His favorite subject is English, and he named Joey Ginn as his favorite teacher because “they genuinely care about their students and push us to succeed.” He is involved in student council and Blue and Gold mentors, and in his free time he enjoys working out, spending time with friends and family, and watching baseball.
He also appreciates the personalities that keep the Wildcats loose, pointing to teammate Ryder Davenport as both the team’s most vocal leader and its top jokester. “Baseball has taught me discipline, patience, teamwork, and how to handle adversity lessons I’ll carry with me long after my playing days,” Jennings said.
